Forecasting the market outlook for the South African maize and sorghum sector using econometric modeling

In this study, an econometric model of the South African maize and sorghum sector is estimated. Using the developed model, a market outlook for the two major grain sectors – maize and sorghum - for 1999/00 to 2006/07, is generated under the specified assumptions. Results indicate that for both maize and sorghum, consumption will gradually increase over time. In spite of varying areas of maize and sorghum being harvested, total production will also gradually increase over time due to increases in particularly yields.