Fresh Produce sector faces challenges

Challenge. I hope that my readers will regard this word in a positive way, instead of as something to be dreaded. I say this because the fresh produce sector faces numerous challenges.

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I’ve often written about the changes that are due in our fresh produce markets. I don’t know exactly what these will be, because the Draft Agricultural Produce Agencies Bill is yet to be finalised. But once this has happened, the markets will undoubtedly face many new challenges. How we react to them will be the key to success.

Market agents have forwarded their proposals for the bill through the Institute of Market Agents of South Africa (Imasa). It remains to be seen whether these ideas and suggestions have found favour with the powers that be.

Reason for optimism
At this stage, no one knows whether they were accepted, amended or simply tossed out. The one straw that market agents can clutch at is the fact that their representatives involved with the negotiations all seem quietly optimistic. They are not exactly jumping with joy at this stage, but they say that the proposals have received attention.

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Another challenge – climate change – had my mind racing the other day when I listened to Prof Kobus van der Walt from North-West University give a presentation on this vexing issue. Add a burgeoning population to climate change, and the agriculture sector faces some tough times.
Or maybe not. I like to believe that our farmers will face these challenges positively and turn them into lucrative opportunities.

Action is needed

Our farmers also face challenges from other sources, such as politicians. But even here, my belief in the inherently positive nature of South Africa’s farmers gives me hope that agriculture will find the answers it needs. One thing is certain, though. The Draft Agricultural Produce Agencies Bill can have the best intentions in the world, but if these are not translated into meaningful action by role players in markets, it will be difficult to ensure a reliable supply of nutritious, affordable food for all .