Rising food prices are proving to be a relief for South Africa’s struggling farming community, says Lourie Bosman, president of farmers' federation AgriSA.

Speaking about the rise in food prices, Bosman said, "We are not unhappy about it .... If that hadn't happened then a lot of producers would still be struggling to maintain viability."

In the past farmers have struggled to make a profit, as an abundance of food production pushed commodity prices lower. "The rising food prices will make it possible for us to bargain in global trade ... it will also make it possible for the developing world to produce more," said Bosman.

Meanwhile, Hans van der Merwe, AgriSA’s chief executive, said he does not expect a decline in food prices. "We are expecting a slower rise in prices and the food inflation trend, but not a decline."