Crop Estimates CommitteeIn the news
The rand strengthened, producer and consumer inflation eased, and the average food basket became cheaper in August. But looming fuel increases and subdued salary growth mean household relief may be limited.
PPI

Sunday Review: Inflation eases and food basket costs fall, but fuel hikes loom

The rand strengthened, inflation eased and the food basket fell in August, but higher fuel costs and weak salary growth may limit household relief.

  • Ashley Lechman
  • Yogashen Pillay
6 min read
Despite recent challenges with heavy rain, the latest Crop Estimates Committee (CEC) report indicates a strong harvest, with the maize crop still expected to be the largest on record.
MAIZE

South Africa’s record maize harvest, but El Niño looms

SA's commercial maize crop is forecast to reach 17.4 million tonnes in 2026, but an expected El Niño event remains a risk.

  • Yogashen Pillay
4 min read