We hosted a media briefing on Monday 6 December to take a closer look at some of the challenges and solutions for export fruit producers. If you missed it, follow this Zoom link to access a recording of the media briefing (select recording 2 once the link opens). The passcode is d$&t#k9y
PRESENTERS
The AWSA Northwest Agriculturist of the Year 2021, Dr. Johnny van der Merwe, senior lecturer in Agricultural Economics at the North-West University and managing director of Agrimark Trends (AMT) and Agri-Optimum, discussed the markets of crops like table grapes, oranges, avocado and macadamia. (See presentation attached)
Despite some bumper crops expected this season, there are warning lights on the horizon with the EU tightening regulations on MRLs and actives used in crop protection products. With less tools in their toolbox, growers need to adapt quickly to an ever-changing market environment.
Ursula Quinn, compliance officer at the table grape producer and exporter HN Pieterse (Groblersdal) shared her experience and also gave some insights into the challenges producers face when exporting fruit.
Dirk Uys, Horticulture Go-to-market Lead at Bayer Crop Science discussed in broad terms the solutions the company offers. He also shed some light on EU regulations and what the current and possible future consequences may be for South African export fruit producers if fewer actives in crop protection products are allowed and lower MRLs are enforced.
