Tractor sales outlook still buoyant

Tractor sales declined 28.9% to 635 units in September this year‚ compared with 893 units sold in the comparative period last year according to data compiled by the South African Agricultural Machinery Association (Saama).

For the year to date‚ however‚ tractor sales were up 13.1% to 6‚002 units‚ from 5‚307 units in the same period last year.

Combine harvester sales rose 21.1% to 23 units in September‚ compared with 19 units recorded in the previous comparable period.

For the year to date‚ combine harvester sales lifted 45.9% to 283 units‚ compared with 194 units previously.

The association said the apparent sharp downturn in September sales was not a cause for concern.

"Average September tractor sales over the past five years were 617 units‚ almost in line with September sales this year. September and October tractor sales last year were at exceptionally high levels‚ so month-on-month comparisons are being made against these."

Saama said the market for agricultural machinery remained buoyant‚ with fundamentals in the market continuing to look good.

"Commodity prices remain good and the recent rains in some summer cropping areas have enabled farmers to start planting there."