Facts about the Central Region’s economy

Interesting facts and figures about the Central Region in South Africa – North West, Free State and Northern Cape.

Central region
  • It contributes 13,4% of the Growth Domestic Product (GDP) of SA. That is 5,9% by North West; 5,2% by the Free State and 2,2% by the Northern Cape.
  • · Agriculture provides 13,6% of the Central Regions’ GDP and 13% of the country’s total GDP.
  • · 7% of all new vehicles are sold in the Central Region and this region has been the quickest on the road to recovery in SA.
  • Free State:
  • The province is the leading producer of maize which is important for food security.
  • 25% of South Africa’s cattle sales originate in the Free State province. The Thabo Mofutsanyane district has the highest population of cattle in the country (490 000). That is 14% of South Arica’s total cattle population.
  • Lejweleputswa is SA’s top producer district of maize (21%) and potatoes (23%).

Northern Cape:

  • The NC has the biggest sheep population. The province sells 35% of all sheep nationwide. Pixley ka Seme district has the highest number of sheep outnumbering the population of people by six to one!
  • The region is also the top lucerne producer (37% of SA) and the second biggest grape producer after the Western Cape.

North West:

  • The North West is the biggest producer of sunflower seeds after the Free State and the second biggest producer of carrots after Gauteng.
  • The province is the third biggest producer of cattle.

More Industry News stories

Volvo cars now feature Google Gemini

Volvo cars now feature Google Gemini

Volvo has confirmed that its vehicles will now integrate Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence system. This development builds on the company’s existing collaboration with Google, which already provides Android Automotive OS and Google services in Volvo models.

  • 5 May 2026
April new vehicle sales defy economic pressures

April new vehicle sales defy economic pressures

New vehicle sales in 2026 continued their positive trend in April, with the 47 979 units sold marking the best April figure since 2013. This represents a remarkable performance by local automotive retailers despite a host of economic headwinds and a challenging trading environment.

  • 5 May 2026