South Africa’s seasonally adjusted GDP increased by 1.2% in the second quarter of 2021, with agriculture growing by 6.2% on the same basis. However, a direct comparison of Q2 2021 to Q2 2020, in real terms, reflects growth of 15.9% – exceptional performance in a weak economic environment. The star performer was the field crop sector, where a bumper summer crop was sold at high prices owing to international market conditions. Production value from maize and soybeans increased sharply year on year. Animal products also expanded on the back of strong prices.