Article
Far East buyers drive demand for South African maize
Published: 31/07/2026
South
Africa expects to harvest a record 17,3 million tonnes of maize this season.
However, farmers had harvested and delivered only 27% of the crop to commercial
silos by late June after heavy rains delayed fieldwork. Despite the slower
pace, the crop quality remains better than last season.
Export
activity has continued to improve as more maize reaches the market. During the
week ending 19 June, South Africa exported 113 775 tonnes of maize. Vietnam
received 76% of the shipments, while South Korea accounted for 11%. African
countries received the remaining volumes.
The
stronger demand from Far East buyers marks a change from the previous marketing
year, when African countries led South Africa’s export market. Zimbabwe bought
almost half of the two million tonnes exported during the 2025 to 2026
marketing year, which ended in April 2026.
Since the start of the 2026 to 2027 marketing year in
May, Far East countries have taken about 72% of the 607 228 tonnes of maize
exported by South Africa. Analysts say buyers continue to favour South African
maize because of its good quality, low moisture levels from natural sun drying,
and competitive pricing. – Milling Middle East & Africa