SAFEX Soybean Prices Dip As South Africa Oilseeds Trade

Tuesday 6th January 2026

By inAfrika Newsroom

SAFEX soybean prices opened the first full trading week of 2026 on a softer note, with Grain SA’s live feed showing early declines in key contracts on Monday. The moves offer an early signal for oilseed margins, crushers, and feed costs.

Grain SA data showed the December 2026 soybean contract trading at 7,000 rand per tonne, down 150 rand. Meanwhile, the May 2026 contract traded at 6,535 rand, down 35 rand, with volume recorded.

Prices can shift fast in thin early trade. Still, they matter because soybeans link to cooking oil, animal feed, and poultry input costs. Therefore, even small moves can shape near-term hedging decisions.

Weather risk remains another layer. Forecast watchers have flagged a mix of heavy rain and heat risks in parts of the region in the first week of January. Consequently, traders often reprice grain and oilseeds when field conditions change.

For farmers, the key question is whether current price levels cover input costs, especially fuel and fertiliser. Meanwhile, for millers and feed buyers, the focus is supply timing and storage. Also, for lenders, price swings shape credit risk on seasonal finance.

The SAFEX screen does not tell the whole story. However, it gives a clean benchmark that many contracts reference. As a result, Monday’s dip will feed into procurement talks this week.

Next steps — SAFEX soybean prices

Traders will watch daily volumes and whether SAFEX soybean prices stabilise after early deals. In addition, weather updates will guide field expectations and basis levels.

Why it matters

Oilseeds prices affect food inflation and farm income. Therefore, SAFEX soybean prices are a quick read on how 2026 cost pressures may start.