Far East buyers drive demand for South Africa’s maize as exports gather pace
Strong demand from Vietnam and South Korea is supporting South Africa’s maize exports as the country harvests a record 17.3 million tonnes crop. With exports projected to reach 3 million tonnes in 2026–27, overseas demand is expected to help balance supplies and support maize prices.
South Africa’s maize exports have gained strong support from Far East markets as the country moves through one of its largest harvests on record, helping create a better balance between supply and demand.
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 field work. 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 2026, 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 2 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.
According to agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo, “The essential point is that South Africa’s maize harvest is under way, and the weather should support it over the coming weeks and months. We also continue to see more encouraging demand for maize across various markets than in the past. These exports are essential to ensuring the maize market is generally more balanced, and we don’t have an excess glut that distorts prices for longer.”
South Africa expects to export about 3 million tonnes of maize during the 2026 to 2027 marketing year, a 50% increase from the previous season. Large carryover stocks from last year, together with this season’s harvest, have increased available supplies, making export demand important for the market.
Looking ahead, demand from southern African countries could also increase next year if the expected El Niño weather pattern affects regional crop production. Continued buying from both Far East and African markets will help South Africa meet its export target while supporting stable maize prices.
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Source : Milling MEA
