SA’s bumper maize harvest keeps food inflation on a leash (opens original article in a new tab)

South Africa's record maize harvest is helping keep food inflation low, despite delays caused by weather conditions.

• South Africa's 2025-26 maize harvest is expected to reach 17.1 million tonnes, a record high.
• The harvest is delayed due to prolonged summer rains and late planting, but crop quality remains high with 94% of delivered maize being first grade or excellent.
• Food inflation in South Africa slowed to 2.8% in April 2026, the lowest in 14 months, benefiting from abundant crop supplies.