South African farming organization Agri SA and its members have had a "productive and fruitful discussion on various issues" with the country's ruling party the African National Congress.

The talks come amid growing calls from many South African for land expropriation without compensation.

More than 200 members, which included farmer representatives from Agri SA’s provincial, commodity and corporate chambers, were present at the talks.

“This engagement with the ANC is of immeasurable value, we are optimistic about the future of a sustainable agricultural sector in South Africa,” said Dan Kriek, Agri SA president.

“I feel that the ANC heard our concerns and will take it into consideration for the path ahead.”

Members had the opportunity to voice their concerns about expropriation without compensation (EWC),  Agri SA said, adding that it remains against any amendment to section 25 of the Constitution.

The group believes section 25 as it currently stands provides the state with the necessary legislative powers to ensure that land reform takes place in an orderly way and according to prescribed processes, it says.

“We all have to work together now to ensure food security for all South Africans,” said Kriek.

Agri SA added that the ANC is "encouraged by the spirit of cooperation from the farming community" and that it is particularly interested in creating an inclusive economy.