Structure of the Economy and Agriculture in South Africa

Vocabulary flashcards reviewing economic sectors, GDP/GNP, and key aspects of agricultural production in South Africa based on the lecture notes.

Primary sector

The economic sector concerned with the extraction of raw materials from the environment (e.g. farming, fishing, forestry, mining).

Secondary sector

The economic sector consisting of activities that process raw materials into useful goods (e.g. steel making, food canning, construction).

Tertiary sector

The economic sector focused on the provision of services (e.g. doctors, accountants, teachers, lawyers).

Quaternary sector

The hi-tech economic sector linked to research and development (e.g. scientists and researchers).

GDP

Total goods and services produced in a country in one year.

GNP

Total goods and services produced in a country by the permanent inhabitants in one year.

Foreign Exchange Contribution of SA Agriculture

Agriculture acts as an earner of foreign exchange, generating 10% of exports.

Job Creation Contribution of SA Agriculture

Agriculture creates jobs, employing 10% of the labour force.

Small-scale farmers

Farmers who operate on a small but economically viable piece of land with the purpose of making a profit.

Large-scale farmers

Farmers involved in the production of crops for local and overseas markets to make a profit.

Inputs of Small-scale Farmers

Limited fertiliser, manual labour, some capital, and intensive farming.

Inputs of Large-scale Farmers

Fertilisers, machinery, large amounts of capital, paid labour, and GM seeds.

Yield of Small-scale Farmers

High yield per hectare, typically using monoculture.

Yield of Large-scale Farmers

Medium yield per hectare, producing a variety of crops.

Importance of Small-scale Farmers

Helps to reduce poverty in rural areas, provides employment, and promotes food security.

Importance of Large-scale Farmers

Produces large quantities of food for local and international markets, and provides employment.

Problems Faced by Small-scale Farmers

Poor infrastructure, poorly financed, and lack of trained farmers.

Problems Faced by Large-scale Farmers

Climate change, increasing cost of labour, and lack of subsidies.

Cattle Production Regions in SA

EC, FS, KZN, LP, and NC.

Problems in SA Cattle Farming

Foot and mouth disease and tick problems, variable price of beef, and limited grazing due to SA's hot conditions.

Maize

A main crop produced in the Highveld; serves as the staple food of the population, earner of foreign exchange, and creator of job opportunities.

Sugarcane Producers in SA

Major producers including Hulett, Illovo, and TSB; provides employment.

Ideal Growing Conditions for Sugarcane

Long, warm growing season, lots of sunlight and moisture, and dry, sunny and cool conditions for ripening.