Levy proposed to fund research

A generic tariff is being proposed by the South African Olive Industry Association (SA Olive). The tariff will be applicable to all local and imported olive products. More than 66% of olive oil is currently imported, meaning that imported oil will help to finance projects in the local olive industry. John Scrimgeour, technical advisor to SA Olive, said at the recent olive field day at Morgenster in Somerset West, Western Cape that the olive industry is poised for major growth but this can only be ­successful with coordinated research and marketing in the local industry. “Levies would make it possible for the industry to research new cultivars that are suited to our climate and in line with consumer demand. Pest and disease management programmes are also of utmost importance,” Scrimgeour said. Scrimgeour mentioned that California and parts of the Mediterranean are ­experiencing severe olive fly infestations and that the industry should prepare itself for these eventualities before it is too late. The levy will also be used for social upliftment programmes. Scrimgeour, therefore, urged all olive farmers to join SA Olive, and participate by voting for or against the proposed levy. – Wouter Kriel