Comparative benchmarking of fertiliser uses for oilseed crop production in South Africa

Abstract

This study comparatively benchmarks fertiliser use over two periods (2013–2015; 2021–2023) in South Africa's oilseed crop production [soybean (Glycine max), canola (Brassica napus) and sunflower (Helianthus annuus)] against global trends, with a focus on major oilseed exporters. It explores fertiliser consumption patterns in South Africa, examining factors driving these trends, and evaluating output per unit of nitrogen-potassium-phosphate (NPK) fertiliser. South Africa's diverse climate allows for a wide range of agricultural products, with grains and oilseeds primarily serving local demands. While total fertiliser consumption is diversified across multiple crops, maize (Zea mays), sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum), and wheat (Triticum aestivum) are the largest consumers, followed by soybean and sunflower. Soybean and canola fertiliser consumption is increasing due to rising demand and its role as a rotational crop. Fertiliser costs and application rate data from Agri Benchmark is used to calculate nutrient input costs and nutrient use efficiencies for different farm sizes in South Africa and major global producers. Results indicate that P-fertiliser management is a significant cost for South Africa, similar to Brazil. The study highlights opportunities to optimise NPK fertiliser use for enhanced oilseed production, strengthening South Africa's position in global oilseed production while ensuring efficient fertiliser use.