South Africa migrant exodus hits farms and factories

South African farms, factories and households are struggling to replace foreign workers after thousands left within weeks to escape fatal anti-migrant protests and intensified immigration enforcement.

Fringe anti-foreigner groups had set June 30 as an unofficial deadline for undocumented migrants to leave. More than 160,000 people have left, according to an AFP tally based on figures from African governments repatriating their citizens.

Zimbabwe, which accounted for the largest share of returnees, said many had worked in South Africa's farming, domestic work and construction sectors.

In KwaZulu-Natal's sugar belt, one farmer on the north coast said he lost up to 80 percent of his cane-cutting workforce almost overnight. Another grower near Mid-Illovo said fields that should be cut were short of workers because many cane cutters came from Lesotho.

In Durban's Chatsworth industrial area, a clothing factory manager said the departure of skilled machinists from Malawi and Mozambique had left factories struggling to meet orders.

The labour shortage claim is disputed. With unemployment above 33 percent, labour unions and researchers argue there is no lack of South Africans willing to work. They say many employers prefer migrant workers because they are cheaper, more flexible and less likely to demand formal contracts, benefits or legal protections.

The government has expanded its Trusted Employer Scheme, which fast-tracks worker visas for companies meeting requirements including mainly employing South Africans, investing in skills development and operating in priority sectors.

Industry groups are urging the government to create legal pathways for seasonal foreign labour. Siyabonga Madlala, chief executive of the South African Farmers Development Association, told Newsroom Afrika that South Africa may need a special dispensation for seasonal labour from Southern African Development Community countries where local supply is insufficient.

Police data cited in the account says at least four foreigners have been killed. Some migrants said they left or considered leaving because of fear for their safety.