Crop trends and pricing insights for a profitable summer

Word From The Market with Tina Nleya

AS the summer planting season starts, local farmers have the opportunity to optimise their crop choices to align with both climate conditions and market demand.

This guide delves into high-demand crops, anticipated pricing trends and market-driven planting strategies to help farmers make the most of the 2024/2025 growing season.

 High-demand crops for the summer season

The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development’s 2024/2025 summer plan emphasises resilience and growth through targeted production increases in maize, soya beans and traditional grains. By focusing on crops with robust market demand, farmers can boost their income while supporting national goals.

Maize

Maize remains a staple crop, highly demanded both locally and regionally.

This year, Zimbabwe plans to produce 2,7 million tonnes, with Government incentives available for drought-resistant varieties that can improve yield, even under adverse conditions. As maize demand rises, especially as a staple for human consumption and livestock feed, it offers stable returns.

Farmers should consider strategic partnerships with local buyers and explore export markets to maximise profits.

Soya beans

Soya beans continue to grow in profitability due to their dual market potential as a food source and animal feed.

The target yield for the upcoming season is 169 400 tonnes, with private sector contracts supporting increased soya bean production.Its importance in the oil and feed industries keeps prices competitive, and with rising demand for sustainable protein sources, soyabeans offer farmers a high-value crop option.

Its nitrogen-fixing properties also benefit soil health, making it an ideal crop for rotations.

Groundnuts and sugar beans

These legumes are experiencing steady demand both locally and internationally, especially in neighbouring countries.

Groundnuts, with a targeted output of 423 500 tonnes; and sugar beans, with a targeted output of 60 500 tonnes, are highly sought after for both consumption and their soil-enriching qualities.

Both crops are used extensively in household diets and are crucial exports to regional markets, where they fetch premium prices. Moreover, their shorter growing cycles can allow farmers to plant multiple times within the season, increasing yield potential.

Traditional grains (sorghum,

pearl millet and finger millet)

Drought-resistant grains like sorghum and pearl millet are crucial for resilience in drier regions.  Zimbabwe has set a high production target for these grains, which continue to gain popularity due to their low water requirements.

These grains offer excellent profit margins and attract buyers looking to diversify grain consumption.

With rising demand from both domestic and regional markets, traditional grains are a sustainable choice for farmers seeking long-term stability.

Horticultural crops

Locally, horticultural crops consistently perform well, especially when harvested at peak demand. Tomatoes, onions and leafy greens are particularly profitable for farmers near urban centres, where demand remains high all year round.

While susceptible to price fluctuations, these crops can command premium prices when marketed during seasonal shortages. Additionally, horticulture offers more rapid revenue cycles, allowing farmers to cover operational costs more quickly.

Pricing insights

Market-led farming begins with understanding and anticipating price trends.

Here is a breakdown of some anticipated price movements for Zimbabwe’s key summer crops:

Maize — As demand for maize rises across Southern Africa, prices are expected to increase, especially with potential export opportunities to drought-affected regions.

With strategic storage, farmers can hold their maize until the market peaks, taking advantage of higher prices.

Maize prices generally trend upward from January to March, as supplies from the harvest season begin to dwindle.

Soya beans — Soya beans continue to hold strong, with market prices expected to remain competitive due to their essential role in food processing and feed industries.

The demand for protein-rich foods is projected to grow, which keeps soya bean prices stable.

Given the high international demand, soya bean growers can explore both local and export markets to maximise income. Farmers may also consider value-added opportunities like processing beans into oil or meal, both of which have strong market demand.

Groundnuts — This crop has maintained a resilient price, with demand particularly strong in markets seeking alternatives to expensive imported nuts.  Zimbabwe’s groundnuts are popular across the region and a well-timed sale can bring substantial profits.

This year’s planned increase in production will likely push prices slightly lower during peak harvest but will still command good returns through local markets and export channels.

Horticultural crops — Prices for fresh produce such as tomatoes and onions can be volatile but tend to peak after the primary harvest season when supplies are limited.

Farmers can increase their profits by focusing on quality and reducing losses through efficient transportation and storage. Short-term price fluctuations can be managed through planned sales during market shortages or by growing crops with longer shelf lives.

 Market-led planting

Adopting a market-led approach means planting with the end consumer in mind, which allows for increased profitability and stable sales. Here are some strategic steps for market-led planting:

Prioritise high-demand crops — Before planting, identify which crops have the highest demand in your area. Additionally, match them to suitable land based on crop needs.

Farmers can consult local markets or buyer organisations to learn which crops are currently scarce or expected to be in demand, helping them choose the most profitable options.

Enhance quality — Buyers and consumers are willing to pay premium prices for high-quality produce. Invest in improved seed varieties, practise proper spacing and manage pests and diseases effectively.

Quality improvements increase crop value and can open doors to premium markets. Quality certification can also offer access to export markets, where prices tend to be higher.

* Leverage crop timing — Selling crops when demand is highest is key to market-led success.

Crops like maize and horticultural produce can yield higher returns if sold just after market shortages.

Use weather forecasts to plan planting and harvest schedules to avoid peak supply periods.

If possible, set up storage facilities to hold produce until market prices are more favourable.

* Explore market partnerships — Building relationships with buyers such as processors, retailers or export companies can provide a steady income stream.

Contract farming with established buyers can reduce price risks, ensuring a guaranteed market for the crops.

Farmers may consider cooperatives, which provide better bargaining power and greater access to larger buyers and better prices.

 Resilience through climate-smart practices

With unpredictable rainfall and climate impacts, climate-smart agriculture is critical for maintaining productivity.

The 2024/2025 season promises better rainfall conditions, yet adopting the following resilient practices remains essential:

Irrigation investments — Irrigation schemes can provide a critical buffer against dry spells.

Zimbabwe’s target for summer irrigation area expansion means farmers with access to irrigation can achieve more stable production and take advantage of markets during drier periods, when prices are higher.

Drought-resistant varieties — Using drought-tolerant varieties of maize, soya beans and groundnuts is essential for long-term resilience.

These varieties not only safeguard yields in drier years but also reduce input costs over time.

Soil health management — Practices like crop rotation with nitrogen-fixing plants (for example, soya beans or groundnuts) and minimum tillage can help maintain soil fertility.

Healthier soil improves crop yields and decreases fertiliser needs, lowering costs and enhancing resilience.

The 2024/2025 summer season brings promising opportunities for farmers willing to align their planting strategies with market demand.

By focusing on high-demand crops like maize, soya beans and groundnuts, as well as keeping a close eye on pricing trends, farmers can maximise their profits.

Leveraging a market-led approach, improving crop quality and adopting resilient practices are essential for profitability in an unpredictable climate.

With informed decision-making and proactive marketing, Zimbabwe’s farmers can harness this season’s potential to ensure a fruitful harvest.

This summer, prioritise your market choices and invest in quality to secure the highest possible returns.

Here is to a productive season!

Tina Nleya is the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA)’s marketing and public relations manager. She can be contacted on email: tnleya@ama.co.zw. Word From The Market is a column produced by AMA to promote market-driven production.