As South Africa prepares to assume the G20 presidency in 2025, the country has a unique opportunity to champion agricultural reforms that will resonate across the globe. With the world grappling with food insecurity, climate change, and the need for sustainable development, South Africa’s leadership can be instrumental in shaping the future of global agriculture.
“The G20 provides a critical platform for South Africa to not only advance its own agricultural interests but also to champion the aspirations of African agriculture on the world stage,” says Dr Thulasizwe Mkhabela, an agricultural economist and Group Executive: Impact & Partnerships at the Agricultural Research Council.
One of the key areas of focus will be to promote a more open and inclusive global trading system. South Africa, a significant agricultural exporter, will advocate for the reduction of trade barriers, such as high tariffs and subsidies, that currently hinder market access for African producers.
“Leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is crucial,” Dr Mkhabela emphasizes. “By facilitating intra-African trade, we can create a more integrated and competitive agricultural market within the continent.”
However, Dr Mkhabela cautions against an overly simplistic approach to trade liberalization. “We must carefully consider the potential impact on domestic markets and ensure that local producers are not adversely affected by increased competition,” he adds.
Furthermore, South Africa will prioritize the needs of smallholder farmers, a cornerstone of its own agricultural sector. By advocating for increased financial and technical support for these farmers, South Africa aims to enhance their resilience and productivity, particularly in the face of climate change.
“Investing in smallholder farmers is crucial for ensuring food security and driving sustainable development,” Dr Mkhabela explains. “This includes supporting access to markets, finance, and climate-smart technologies.”
Climate change poses a significant threat to global food security, and South Africa, deeply familiar with the challenges of drought and other climate-related impacts, is well-positioned to champion climate-smart agriculture (CSA).
“South Africa can leverage its experience in drought-resistant crops and water-efficient technologies to advocate for greater global support for CSA initiatives,” Dr Mkhabela says. “This includes sharing knowledge and best practices with other G20 countries and African nations.”
The digital revolution is also transforming agriculture. South Africa, with its growing agri-tech sector, will advocate for the expansion of digital tools and technologies that can enhance market access, improve weather forecasting, and optimize farm management practices for smallholder farmers.
“Investing in digital infrastructure and capacity building is crucial to ensure that African farmers can effectively leverage these technologies,” Dr Mkhabela emphasizes.
Financing remains a major challenge for many African farmers. South Africa will advocate for increased public and private investment in African agriculture, focusing on areas such as infrastructure development, value-added processing, and climate adaptation.
“Expanding access to credit for smallholder farmers through microfinance and insurance schemes is essential to enhance their resilience and competitiveness,” Dr Mkhabela adds.
As the G20 chair, South Africa has a unique opportunity to shape the global agricultural agenda. By championing trade liberalization, supporting smallholder farmers, promoting climate-smart agriculture, and driving digital innovation, South Africa can contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient global food system.
“This is not just about advancing South Africa’s own agricultural interests,” concludes Dr Mkhabela. “It’s about leveraging our position to drive positive change for the entire African continent and the world.”
