The maize crop production estimate for 2016 stands at 7.7 million tonnes which is 27% down on the 2015 number. Rainfall for the remainder of the summer season until April will be above normal, according to the latest forecast from the South African Weather Service. This will help to improve soil moisture and raise dam levels following a severe drought. A maize surplus projected for 2017, could reduce South African food price inflation which amounted to 10.5% in 2016.
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