Cape Town – The Western Cape’s agricultural sector posted a 14% year-on-year growth in the second quarter of 2025, driving the province’s economic expansion and supporting over 300,000 jobs, according to the latest Agricultural Economic Quarterly Report.
The report, drawing on Statistics South Africa’s recent economic data, shows the Western Cape economy grew by 0.7% quarter-on-quarter and 1.3% year-on-year, with agriculture making a significant contribution. The sector now accounts for 4.7% of the provincial economy.
“Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the Western Cape’s economy,” said Dr Ivan Meyer, Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism. “This growth reflects the hard work of our farmers, agri-workers, and processors, and supports our Growth for Jobs Strategy, which aims to achieve 4–6% economic growth per year and create 6,000 new jobs by 2035.”
ALSO READ: South African olive producers strike gold at 2025 SA Olive Awards
Horticulture leads the way
Horticulture continues to lead the way, generating R44 billion in national farm income in Q2 2025, with citrus, vegetables, and deciduous fruits topping the list. Employment in agriculture and agri-processing totals 302,604, or 11% of the province’s workforce, with crop production and food manufacturing providing the bulk of jobs.
Minister Meyer added: “The sector not only drives economic growth but also plays a vital role in rural job creation. We remain committed to supporting agriculture through innovation, infrastructure investment, and improved market access.”
ALSO READ: US tariff threatens Kouga citrus industry
