AgriSA notes the publication of the amended National Minimum Wage in the Government Gazette today, which confirms that the national minimum wage will increase to R30.23 per hour, effective 1 March 2026, in terms of the National Minimum Wage Act, No. 9 of 2018.
AgriSA reiterates its support for fair and decent wages for farmworkers and recognises the importance of protecting vulnerable workers against rising living costs. However, this announcement comes at a time of uncertainty for South African agriculture, as the sector is experiencing real and measurable economic losses arising from the ongoing Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak and ongoing biosecurity challenges. The livestock industry accounts for between 40% and 45% of agriculture’s contribution to GDP.
The timing of the adjustment will put additional pressure on a sector already under strain. Agriculture is emerging from consecutive years of contraction caused by drought, climate volatility, and animal disease outbreaks. While parts of the sector are showing recovery in 2025, this recovery remains fragile and uneven. Labour-intensive subsectors, emerging farmers, and export-oriented value chains are particularly exposed.
AgriSA has consistently emphasised that wage policy must be sector-responsive and implementation-aware, particularly in periods of systemic risk such as the current FMD crisis. While the organisation engaged constructively throughout the National Minimum Wage review process, it remains concerned that above-inflation adjustments implemented during a period of animal health emergency may place additional strain on jobs, farm viability, and rural economies.
AgriSA calls for parallel action by the relevant state authorities to stabilise the agricultural operating environment, including strengthened animal health and biosecurity systems, accelerated resolution of export market restrictions, improved port and logistics performance, and relief from administered input costs, such as electricity. Without these interventions, wage adjustments alone risk weakening employment sustainability, accelerating unemployment rather than improving worker welfare.
AgriSA remains committed to constructive engagement with government, organised labour and social partners to ensure that wage policy supports both worker protection and the long-term sustainability of South African agriculture, particularly at a time when food security, rural livelihoods and export earnings are under pressure.
Enquiries
Johann Kotzé
AgriSA CEO
+27 79 523 5767
