PODCAST: South Africa’s agricultural sector is blooming

Mark Barnes and Tim Cohen gallop through the week’s events, offering thoughts, opinions, and perspectives on local and international affairs. With special guest Wandile Sihlobo.
May 26, 2026
1 min read

South Africa’s agricultural exports could well hit record levels in 2026, surpassing even a spectacular 2025, despite Donald Trump’s tariff cadenza last year. Merchant banker Mark Barnes and journalist Tim Cohen discuss this, and other matters agricultural, with special guest Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at Agbiz.

Amid the deluge of bad news confronting both the country and the world – and the deluge of rainfall across much of South Africa – this is a fabulous turn-up for the books. As your mother always told you, it is basic etiquette not to complain about farmers with your mouth full.

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Tim Cohen

Tim Cohen is a long-time business journalist, commentator and columnist. He is currently senior editor for Currency. He was previously the editor of Business Day and the Financial Mail, and editor at large for the Daily Maverick.

Mark Barnes

Mark Barnes is a South African businessman, investment banker and entrepreneur. He held senior roles at various institutions including Standard Bank, Capital Alliance and Brait. He is also known as the cofounder of the Purple Group, owner of EasyEquities.

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