THE export of agricultural products such as wine, maize and citrus is one of the few resources that still contributes positively to growth in the South African economy – and the grain value chain plays an integral role in this.
“South African agricultural producers’ record exports during last year exceeded the import value of agricultural products and food. Food and beverages worth R177,8 billion were exported in 2021. This is 5,2% more than in 2020, which means that goods worth R75,4 billion more was exported than imported,” said Mr Hein Rehr, president of the Grain Handling Organisation of Southern Africa (GOSA), at the organisation’s recent symposium in Mossel Bay.
According to Rehr, GOSA’s members had a share somewhere in the exports, whether in the grading of maize, its storage, trading, financing or transport. The estimated current maize crop of 14,6 million tonnes – and the annual consumption of 11,8 million tonnes – indicate that exports will take place again this year. Given the war between Russia and Ukraine, South Africa may not experience any shortages in the short term, but the crisis is sure to have an impact on food price inflation as prices are already rising worldwide.
“Agriculture is still keeping South Africa’s doors open. With about 30 million people receiving their income from the state, 36 000 farmers and workers feed South Africa’s 58 million residents every day. The government of the day should classify food security – just like Eskom – as a national asset,” Rehr added.
37th symposium
GOSA’s 37th symposium was held on 17 and 18 March at Diaz Strand Hotel in Mossel Bay. The speakers at the symposium were Dr Roelof Botha (economist), Mr Theo Venter (independent political and policy specialist), Mr Wessel Lemmer (AGBIZ Grain) and Mr Benoit Le Roy (SA Water Chamber). Grain-specific breakaway sessions were facilitated by Messrs Pieter Fourie (Eko Design), Japie Snyman (Olam SA), Wayne Rosewall (Premier Milling) and Ms Alta Swanepoel (Alta Swanepoel and Associates). A GOSA business breakfast was addressed by Prof Jannie Rossouw (Wits Business School).
- Enquiries: Hein Rehr, chairman of GOSA. Cell: 082 451 1569, email: hein@natfum.co.za
