Africa’s Agriculture Sector Could Hit 1 Trillion by 2030, Says Banking CEO

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Africa’s agriculture sector could be worth as much as1 trillion by 2030, according to Emrie Brown, CEO of Rand Merchant Bank. Speaking at the Bloomberg Africa Business Summit held in Johannesburg in November 2025, Brown emphasized the continent’s untapped agricultural and digital potential, noting that Africa must take decisive steps to unlock this projected growth.


The projection is based on Africa's vast natural resources, including 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, and a rapidly growing population expected to surpass 1.7 billion by 2030. With food demand increasing across the continent and globally, the opportunity for agricultural expansion is significant. Brown also pointed to the importance of digital transformation, highlighting the expectation of over 1.1 billion internet users across Africa by 2030.


However, the road to a $1 trillion agriculture economy is not without obstacles. Infrastructure limitations, climate-related risks, and limited access to finance for smallholder farmers continue to hamper growth. Additionally, inconsistent policy environments in several African countries may discourage long-term investment from the private sector and international partners.


Brown stressed the importance of intra-African collaboration and partnerships with global investors. She called on governments and businesses to strengthen trade under frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which can enhance regional food markets and investment flows. She also urged a renewed focus on sustainable practices to ensure long-term productivity and climate resilience.


While some observers consider the1 trillion estimate ambitious, experts agree that with coordinated efforts, strategic investment, and innovation, Africa could transform its agriculture into a key driver of economic development. Without action, however, the sector may fall short of reaching its full potential.

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