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Farm sector adds 14,000 new jobs in third quarter of 2025
South Africa’s agriculture industry added 14,000 new jobs between July and September 2025, according to the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey from Statistics SA. This brings the total number of agricultural jobs to 920,000—2% higher than the previous quarter and well above the long-term average of 799,000.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen welcomed the growth, calling it a sign that the sector is weathering tough conditions, including the lingering impact of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
“These figures are encouraging, especially as the livestock industry continues to recover from FMD,” said Steenhuisen. “We’re sourcing more vaccines and tightening biosecurity to protect farmers and the food economy.”
Where the jobs are coming from
The third-quarter job gains are being driven by strong harvests and higher demand in three key areas:
- Field crops
- Horticulture
- Forestry
These gains are helping to sustain job creation across rural provinces, especially in Eastern Cape and Limpopo.
Trade deals driving on-farm growth
Steenhuisen outlined the impact of recent trade efforts by the Department of Agriculture. Citrus exports reached record highs in 2025, while new avocado markets in China are showing early promise. Efforts are also underway to increase exports to Japan, India, and the UK.
“This is key to making South Africa a global player while creating jobs here at home,” Steenhuisen said.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement was also credited for opening more doors for farmers and agri-processors across Africa.
More jobs expected in 2026
The ministry believes continued investment in trade access and crop production will keep job figures rising into next year.
“If we can keep securing global demand, we can keep planting, harvesting and processing,” said Steenhuisen. “That’s how we protect and grow rural jobs.”
