Its core mandate as defined in the ARC Act is to deliver on the priorities of the current government and informed by instructing legislations and policies, the ARC further seeks to act as the principal agricultural research institution in South Africa so as to conduct research, drive research and development, drive technology development and the transfer (dissemination) of information. This is achieved through

• Promoting sustainability and equitable economic participation in the agricultural sector;
• Promoting agriculture and related industries;
• Contributing to a better quality of life;
• Facilitate/ensure natural resource conservation; and
• Alleviate poverty
• Promote national food and nutrition security, and
• Contribute to improved health and better quality of life.