Grains value chain round table Q3 update

The Grains Value Chain Round Table is driving inclusive growth in South Africa's grain sector through progress in trade, infrastructure, transformation, research and policy, supporting farmers and advancing the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan.

- Octavia Avesca Spandiel

The Grains Value Chain Round Table (VCRT) is playing a pivotal role in transforming South Africa's grain sector into a more inclusive, competitive industry. This effort is included in the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP), a bold national strategy to grow agricultural production while ensuring opportunities reach all farmers. Speaking to Farmer's Weekly, Dr Godfrey Kgatle, research coordinator at Grain SA, shared an in-depth update on the progress and priorities driving the future of South Africa's grain industry in its third quarterly meeting. The VCRT showcased significant strides across its key focus areas.

MARKET ACCESS, TARIFF CHALLENGES

According to Kgatle, the Trade Working Group's recent achievements include tackling market access and tariff challenges.

"One of our key successes was facilitating the reopening of maize exports to neighbouring Southern African Development Community countries like Namibia and Botswana after previous bans. This enabled over 500 000t of maize to be exported, helping farmers maintain critical market access," he said.

He mentioned that challenges remain regarding wheat tariffs designed to protect local producers.

"There have been delays and uncertainty around how these tariffs are applied, which is causing difficulties for both farmers and millers. We are currently waiting for government clarity on tariff administration to resolve these issues," Kgatle explained.

The group is also investigating the impact of special import rebates some countries use to reduce or remove tariffs on goods entering South Africa.