The global food industry is at a crossroads, and with food insecurity escalating, particularly in South Africa, wholesale markets continue to play a crucial role in stabilising food supply and ensuring accessibility.
Exciting news for industry leaders, fresh produce experts, and market innovators: the World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM)
Conference 2025 website is now live. This highly anticipated event, set to take place in Johannesburg from 14 to 16 May, will be a global platform for key stakeholders to discuss the future of food security and wholesale trade.
Towards sustainable food security
Every meal we consume begins with a farmer and a well-functioning food system. Wholesale markets serve as a vital link between farmers and consumers, ensuring that food is efficiently distributed, prices remain stable, and communities have reliable access to fresh produce. Their role in tackling food insecurity cannot be overstated.
By efficiently managing food distribution, wholesale markets contribute to:
- Minimising food waste through improved logistics and distribution channels;
- Ensuring food accessibility in both urban and rural areas; and
- Strengthening local and global food supply chains.
With food insecurity affecting millions, understanding how these dynamics shape our food systems is more crucial than ever.
Importance of the conference
Speaking on the importance of the WUWM Conference 2025, Sello Makhubela, acting CEO of Joburg Market, says: “The conference marks a significant moment for South Africa and the global fresh produce industry. As Johannesburg hosts this prestigious event, we take a step closer to finding real, sustainable solutions to food security challenges.
“Wholesale markets are at the heart of food distribution, and this conference will provide a platform to collaborate, innovate, and create a more resilient food system.”
The City of Johannesburg views the WUWM Conference as a powerful catalyst for economic development. Hosting an international event of this scale opens up numerous opportunities for investment, tourism, trade partnerships, and local enterprise development.
Councillor Nomoya Mnisi, MMC for Economic Development, emphasises the transformative potential of the event: “The conference is not just about agriculture and food security; it is an economic game changer for Johannesburg. It puts our city on the global map, drives local economic participation, creates job opportunities, and highlights the city’s potential as a hub for innovation in fresh produce trade. We are proud to support this initiative that aligns perfectly with our developmental agenda.”
For Johannesburg, the conference is a springboard to harness partnerships, empower local farmers and traders, and showcase the city’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth.
The conference will focus on sustainability, innovation, and the evolving landscape of fresh food trade – key discussions that will shape the way we feed our communities in the years to come.
As preparations are ongoing to welcome delegates from across the world, you are invited to be part of this pivotal conversation.
Book your space now, by visiting: www.wuwmjoburg2025.co.za. For more information, phone Joburg Market on 011 992 8000, email [email protected], or visit joburgmarket.co.za.
