Chapter 6 – Vegetable market dynamics
South Africa’s vegetable markets have experienced contrasting outcomes despite higher volumes. During the first half of 2026, potato and onion market deliveries both increased, yet prices responded very differently. Potato prices declined as additional supply weighed on the market, while onion prices remained resilient despite higher throughput. These contrasting trends highlight the importance of market timing, supply distribution and the market’s ability to absorb additional volumes, rather than supply growth alone.
Higher vegetable market volumes resulted in contrasting price outcomes between 2025 and 2026.
Figure 6
Source: Potatoes SA and Absa AgriBusiness, 2026
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