Recently, Fruit SA and the Subtropical Growers Association collaborated to host a transformation showcase on Tshivhase Agridam Farm outside Thohoyandou.
There, I was reminded of the importance of emerging producers being clear about their “why”, as they navigate significant challenges.
The turbulent times that currently afflicted the global fresh produce trade demand the same from all value chain players – especially producers.
Then there are global developments and phenomena that are causing a widespread ripple effect. These include decrees from the Trump administration, geopolitical tensions, global inflation, and the effects of climate change. Top of mind for the South African agriculture sector, for example, are the continuance of AGOA and strengthened trade relations with the US; the effects of geopolitical tensions and shifts in global demand, on local prices; and the impact of unpredictable weather patterns on production volumes.
And port inefficiencies, loadshedding and infrastructural challenges count among the headwinds that our fruit producers and industry role-players face. Benewens beduidende finansiële terugslae kan hierdie ontwikkelings ook ‘n reeks negatiewe emosies aanwakker. Dis júís wat die “hoekom” so belangrik maak. Maar met hernieude toewyding tot samewerking en vindingrykheid binne die bedryf en ‘n positiewe langtermynsiening daarby, raak die antwoord op dié kardinale vraag hopelik al duideliker.
In the foreword, Anton Kruger elaborates further on recent developments that could impact industry dynamics. He also calls for strengthened support of Fruit SA by industry associations. Fruit SA is an umbrella body that represents the six industry associations and fulfils a facilitative role to help drive industry growth and profitability. Also included in the features in this edition are
“Thailand resumes SA apple imports”,
“CGA welcomes new CEO”, “Know your pest” and “Volhoubare swamdodergebruik”.
Recently, Hortgro featured a few interviews with young members of the industry who had gone on educational tours to farms abroad. Though their comparative views highlighted some aspects worth emulating, they largely set apart the South African fruit industry and its producers.
Maar selfs die mees vermoënde produsente en belanghebbendes in die Suid-Afrikaanse vrugtebedryf moet soms stilstaan om duidelikheid rondom hul “hoekoms” te kry. Dis immers veel meer effektief as om elke keer net ’n skietgebed die heelal in te stuur wanneer dinge moeilik raak.
So, wat is jou “hoekom”?