CAPE TOWN, May 21 (Xinhua) -- South Africa has expanded support measures for small-scale farmers amid surging fertilizer and fuel costs, Deputy President Paul Mashatile said on Thursday.

He was responding to questions for oral reply in Parliament after a lawmaker raised concerns over sharply rising fertilizer and fuel prices, driven by the ongoing Middle East crisis and its impact on global energy and agricultural input markets.

"This critical question ... touches directly on the sustainability and profitability of small-scale farmers in rural and underdeveloped provinces," Mashatile said, noting that government programs have already been deployed to support smallholders.

He said the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Program and other initiatives provided subsidized fertilizer, seed, and other production inputs, alongside infrastructure such as irrigation systems, boreholes, and mechanization.

"These are complemented by infrastructure support such as fencing, irrigation systems, boreholes, and mechanization, ensuring that farmers can sustain productivity even under rising input costs," Mashatile said.

The deputy president highlighted expanded access to blended finance through development finance institutions, aimed at cushioning farmers against market volatility and improving access to affordable credit.

"The government is also accelerating the localization of fertilizer production and promoting climate-smart farming methods to reduce dependency on imported inputs," he said.