New Plant Health Act aimed at improving agricultural trade and biosecurity

The Plant Health (Phytosanitary) Act (No. 35 of 2024) repeals the Agricultural Pests Act (No. 36 of 1983). Magda du Toit spoke to industry leaders to gain their insights on the implications of the new Act.

- Magda du Toit

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen recently welcomed the signing into law of the new Plant Health Bill.

The Plant Health (Phytosanitary) Act (No. 35 of 2024), which repeals the Agricultural Pests Act (No. 36 of 1983), was assented to by President Cyril Ramaphosa in February 2025.

The Act is expected to herald significant changes in South Africa's approach to the management of plant pests and is aimed at improving agricultural trade and biosecurity. It provides for phytosanitary measures to prevent the introduction, establishment and spread of regulated pests in South Africa, as well as the control of regulated pests.

It further provides for the regulation of the movement of plants, plant products and other regulated articles into, within, and out of South Africa and for matters connected therewith.

In a news release, Steenhuisen pointed out that the Act provided for the involvement and co-operation of all government spheres to manage plant pests and diseases in South Africa.

He added that the Act would serve as a biosecurity measure to safeguard local agriculture from plant pests and diseases and ensure an effective phytosanitary regulatory system that was needed to support trade-driven growth in the sector, encompassing market access, regional economic integration and the protection of natural resources.

ADDRESSING GAPS AND CHALLENGES