SA Groundnut Forum (SAGF)
Meeting held on Tuesday 24 October 2024 at 10:00 at the PRF Office building and also by means of a virtual platform (MS Teams)
Opening
The meeting was opened with prayer by Dr Briedenhann.
Welcome
The Chairperson welcomed all the members who attended the SA Groundnut Forum meeting and invited them to participate in the discussions.
The Chairperson also extended a special welcome to Mr. Janusz Luterek, Head of Food and Consumer Law at Hahn & Hahn Attorneys. Mr. Luterek will provide background information and firsthand knowledge about the peanut butter recalls, as previously mentioned in the Food Health Summit report. Additionally, Dr Carmen Muller and Dr Beulah Pretorius who would present their findings regarding groundnuts in the Consumer & Product Research project, were also welcomed to the meeting.
Attendance
Present
Ms A Botha Chairperson Mr G Keun Chief Executive Officer Dr E Briedenhann OAC Chairperson Mr G Burger Grain SA Mr C Louw Grain SA Dr C Muller University of Pretoria Dr B Pretorius University of Pretoria Ms M Scheepers DALRRD Mr K Van Huyssteen SANSOR Mr C Vercueil Grain SA Ms M Du Preez OPDT Via MS Teams
Mr D Boltman Lorenz SA (Pty) Ltd Ms M du Toit SA Peanut Mr H Engelbrecht PPECB Mr J Greef SA Peanut Ms W Haasbroek SGS Mr S Henning ARC-GC Mr C Kenny RCL Foods Ms P Lediga DALRRD Mr W Lemmer Agbiz Grain Ms C Leswifi DALRRD Mr J Luterek Hahn & Hahn Attorneys Mr V Mapfumari DALRRD Dr K Mashingaidze ARC-GC Ms D Marabe DALRRD Ms L Mazibuko Tiger Brands Ms M Mojapelo Ms D Mosehla OPDT Ms L Muller Triotrade Mr C Nortje GWK Mr T Prinsloo ARC-GC Mr B Schultz SAGIS Dr W Snijman ARC-GC Dr S Steenkamp ARC-GC Ms F Sundani Nedbank Ms J Tselentis SANCU / OPDT Ms N van den Bergh Peanutworx (Pty) Ltd Apologies
Mr GL de Kock Roba Foods Mr PA Visser SA Peanut Mr A Snyman GWK Governance/Personalia
The Chairperson reminded the forum members that the terms and rules of the Competition Commission needed to be considered and that the forum's Terms of Reference would apply for the duration of the meeting.
Confirmation of agenda
The agenda was accepted as it stood with no additional discussion points.
The Chairperson mentioned that due to Mr Luterek travelling abroad, his presentation would be accommodated after approval of the minutes.
Approval of minutes
Approval of the minutes of the meeting of the SA Groundnut Forum held on 17 July 2024
- 7.1.3.4 — All reference to 'pot' under this point would be corrected to read 'pod'.
- 7.1.4 — 'committee' in the first sentence of paragraph one would be changed to 'forum'.
- 7.4.4 — 'pricing tool' in the second paragraph must be changed to 'parity-based price trend reports'. This change is important as the current wording could incorrectly be perceived as referring to a process in contravention of the Competition Act.
Resolution:
- Other than the changes indicated herein, the minutes of the meeting of the SA Groundnut Forum held on 17 July 2024, be approved.
Matters for discussion
Research and Technology Transfer
ARC Breeding Programme
(Resolutions 7.1.1.1-7.1.1.3 on the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
The Chairperson mentioned that she reached out to cultivar owners for updated information to include in the cultivar booklet. There were currently 34 registered runner cultivars, with about 14 being commercially available. The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) was also requested to supply the details of non-commercial cultivars for future reference and records.
The Chairperson stressed the need to record the cultivar information at this stage as access to archives, records and information becomes more difficult as time passes. She urged those who haven't responded to submit information to do so, as the finalised document would be a valuable resource document for the industry.
It was also noted that the current information available did not seem to have changed much since the publication of the first document. The Chairperson encouraged the industry's participation to gather updated information, especially on new cultivars. She committed to contacting the registrar to explore if they would share information on newly registered cultivars.
The Chairperson reported that the ARC Groundnut production guide was currently being edited and reviewed for technical accuracy, as mentioned by Mr Snijman in the last meeting. Mr Snijman also noted that the ARC has requested quotations for the print of the production guide. Once the process was approved, it would be submitted for printing.
Dr Mashingaidze noted that the ARC was still having difficulty finding a suitable candidate for the groundnut breeder position that's currently vacant. In the meantime, Ms Van der Merwe continued to manage the groundnut program, while the ARC recently recruited Mr Henning as a PhD student to assist in the groundnut breeding program.
Any updates regarding the ARC Breeding program would be communicated to forum members.
Resolutions:
- That cultivar booklet would be shared with cultivar owners for comments/inputs.
Chairperson
SAGF - That it should be noted that an updated ARC Groundnut production manual should be ready soon for printing and distribution.
SAGF
- That any updates and developments regarding the ARC Breeding program would be communicated to the forum members.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That cultivar booklet would be shared with cultivar owners for comments/inputs.
Industry Collaboration - ARC Cultivar Development, Evaluation, Maintenance and Seed Multiplication
(Resolution 7.1.2.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
- The Chairperson reported that the South African Groundnut Association, seed producers, Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and a representative from ICRISAT on the 22nd of October had a trial and cultivar evaluation day at Setlagole. This was not a farmer's day but focused on evaluation and discussion by the parties involved in industry trials and seed production. She proposed publishing a report, article, or newsletter to inform the broader industry about the association's efforts and capabilities.
The Chairperson provided an overview of the extensive trials being conducted, including the national cultivar trials overseen by the ARC under the care of Dr W Snijman and presented by the ARC during their September cultivar day.Key highlights included were the three consecutive elite trials, managed by Ms M van der Merwe.
Elite One focused on single plant selection for disease resistance, involving two locations and 14 lines. Elite Two was derived from the best selections of Elite One, encompassing three locations and 11 lines, including three ICRISAT lines. Elite Three features the best from Elite Two, with the current season trials running across three locations with the same number of lines. The next season would focus on planting the best lines from Elite Three and selected ICRISAT lines in the national cultivar trials, allowing for observations across varied climatic conditions.
The Chairperson mentioned that ICRISAT assisted in bringing in additional material as originally initiated by Dr Solomon Ntladi previously from the ARC. While some of these lines had been eliminated during the trial process, others were performing well and will continue to be evaluated in the trial program. This evaluation process of the ICRISAT lines will take another two to three years to collect the necessary data. Some of the lines and cultivars were specifically targeted for their high oleic and shorter growing profiles.
ICRISAT representatives explained that groundnut cultivars take up to 90 days to mature in mid-Sahara Africa and should be expected to require about 120 days in South Africa to reach maturity. In the current trials, not all shorter lines performed as well as the locally developed cultivar, for example, Sallie Plus and Akwa. Importantly all crops must be harvested simultaneously for consistency in the trials, but it is planned to conduct another trial during the next season to check maturity at specific intervals and evaluate whether extending the growth period for a week or two would be beneficial.
The Chairperson mentioned that the ICRISAT and ARC incorporated in the trials include the high Oleic varieties that resemble the Spanish types available in South Africa as the focus also remains on market acceptance of new cultivars, ensuring they meet both agricultural needs and market demands.
The Chairperson reported that the work benefits farmers across all sectors and indicated that she would prepare a report and an article for distribution. She thanked the association, specifically Mr de Kock and the seed working group, Dr James from ICRISAT and all involved from the ARC, for their continued efforts in this important research.
- Dr Snijman presented a letter to the industry addressing apparent negative commentary towards the ARC, which was circulating in the public domain, requesting that a formal process of engagement be followed to efficiently and objectively address and facilitate matters of concern. The forum acknowledged the letter, and the Chairperson requested that it be included in the minutes of the meeting.
- Dr Snijman reported the ARC's National cultivar trials were completed
and finalised.
He presented feedback on the results for the 2023/24 season on the Elite 1-3 trials.
Dr Snijman further mentioned that PC lines showing high potential would be included in the cultivar trials, to be compared with locally registered cultivars and controls. The ARC would evaluate the cultivars based on 18 variables, such as seed size, and select those that show potential for further testing. The best-performing lines/cultivars will be considered for registration. as with the most recent ARC404 and ARC K6.
Furthermore, Dr Snijman reported that to support future identification, and purity of the cultivars, the ARC was continuing to work with a company that conducted DNA fingerprinting of groundnut cultivars. The ARC would only continue with the registration and commercialisation of lines or cultivars for which such DNA profiles have been established and as reported before at the Forum, in cases where genetic drift or other issues put into question the purity of breeder seed material, the ARC would use these profiles and DNA test to support programs focused on returning pure cultivars back into the seed production environment.
The Chairperson mentioned in response to a question regarding the funding of the industry trials and the fingerprinting project, the OAC/OPDT provided initial financial support for the fingerprinting project and its development. Funds for ongoing profiling and testing are from the ARC only. As for the various other industry trials, these were funded either directly by industry stakeholders, including the ARC or by the producers who planted and managed the trials. Administrative and reporting services were supplied by the South African Groundnut Association and its members.
- Mr Van Huyssteen inquired about the ordering process, whether companies could order seeds in advance or if the ARC would distribute them as available after multiplication.
The Chairperson explained that the ARC was developing a formal planning structure requiring companies to submit their requirements a year in advance to avoid over- or under-multiplication. Regarding private cultivars, the responsibility lies with the cultivar owners. Following a recent meeting with ICRISAT, the aim was to outline the next steps.
The Chairperson summarised that ICRISAT's cultivar release process into a country was straightforward and would follow the appropriate channels. Coordination would be necessary with licensing and seed multiplication, likely involving the same groups working with ICRISAT and the ARC currently. The Groundnut Association anticipate formalising contracts and frameworks shortly. This process needs to align with the certification program, and the Groundnut Association will reach out soon for further guidance.
The Chairperson noted that in Dr Snijman's initial letter, he suggested hosting an open day at the ARC. This event would allow the ARC to showcase their work, share their experiences, and present their facilities. Many industry role-players may not fully understand the efforts taking place behind the scenes, and it would be beneficial to see how the industry collaborates and participates in various initiatives. The Chairperson suggested that an open day at some point be held at the ARC to showcase their work, share their experiences, and present their facilities, it could be valuable to industry.
Dr Mashingaidze mentioned that the ARC was planning a cultivar day for 2025, around February or March. During this event, different varieties of various crops, including vegetables, would be planted for observation and evaluation purposes.
Resolutions:
- 7.1.2.2.a (Annexure) — That the letter from Dr Snijman would be attached to the minutes of this meeting.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF - 7.1.2.4a — That an open day would be hosted by the ARC around February/March 2025.
Dr Mashingaidze
Dr Snijman
Chairperson
Mr Keun
- The Chairperson reported that the South African Groundnut Association, seed producers, Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and a representative from ICRISAT on the 22nd of October had a trial and cultivar evaluation day at Setlagole. This was not a farmer's day but focused on evaluation and discussion by the parties involved in industry trials and seed production. She proposed publishing a report, article, or newsletter to inform the broader industry about the association's efforts and capabilities.
Research Projects
Consumer & Product Research
(Resolution 7.1.3.2.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
Dr Carmen Muller presented findings from the research project "A Scoping Study of the Consumer Market and Exploring Peanuts as a Diverse Food Product in Mid- and Lower-Income Groups."
Dr Muller discussed two interconnected studies: one on the consumer market and the other on peanuts as a food product for mid- and low-income groups.
The research surveyed 214 individuals from low- and middle-income areas and interviewed 10 Spaza shop owners. It revealed a diverse peanut consumer market in South Africa, influenced by culture, age, and gender while assessing willingness to buy peanut products to enhance public health amidst obesity and stunting issues.
Notably, 26% of South Africans lack sufficient food access, emphasising the need for nutritious options. With a growing middle class driving food consumption, this demographic was a key focus. In August, the Bureau of Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) reported a 20% year-on-year inflation rate for peanuts and peanut butter, leading consumers to seek cheaper alternatives.
In exploring the National School Nutrition Program revealed that while peanut butter was listed as a protein source, it was not served to the children.
Consumer perceptions showed that 28% believe peanuts were low in cholesterol, while 70% acknowledge peanuts as energy-rich and beneficial for health. Common consumption methods include spreading peanut butter on bread for breakfast and lunch, cooking it with marrow or spinach for dinner, and snacking on packeted salted peanuts.
The question was asked if they had any requests for the peanut industry.
- The key issue was the need for help in sourcing peanuts;
- Many shop owners requested shelves, marketing materials, and more product variety;
- They want to buy peanuts at a lower cost to sell at higher prices, while also seeking practical, culturally acceptable recipes; and
- Overall, the importance of flavour variety and accessibility.
The Chairperson expressed gratitude to Dr Muller and Dr Pretorius for presenting the research project. After a thorough discussion, it was decided that the results of the research would only be shared with forum members after the final report receives approval from the Oilseeds Advisory Committee. Additionally, it was agreed that a discussion would be scheduled with the Department of Health to confirm the inclusion and actual use of peanut butter in the school nutrition program.
Resolution:
- That the results of the research projects would only be shared with forum members after the final report was received and approved by the Oilseeds Advisory Committee.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF - That a discussion would be scheduled with the Department of Health to confirm the inclusion and use of peanut butter in the school nutrition program.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
Generic Marketing of Groundnuts
(Resolution 7.1.3.3.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
- Grow for Gold Competition:
Grain SA indicated that they were open and keen to include groundnuts in the Grow for Gold competition. A meeting was scheduled for 5 November 2024, to discuss the requirements and the next steps, to be shared with industry role-players and the Forum. - Social Media:
The Chairperson mentioned that the first round of social media posts focused on the health benefits of groundnuts, with plans for more content addressing allergies. The Chairperson thanked Mr Snyman for sharing an informative article on peanut allergies.The Chairperson requested the forum members to follow and share the Oil and Protein Seeds Development Trust Facebook page and other social media platforms to increase reach, making sharing of information more effective in support of initiatives, including school nutritional programs.
- Grow for Gold Competition:
Tariffs and Levies
Import Tariffs
(Resolution 7.2.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
The Chairperson provided feedback on the Import Tariff applications and mentioned a meeting with Minister Steenhuisen on 17 September 2024, in Cape Town which was set up by Pro-Agri and to which she was invited. The goal was to explore potential collaboration between departments to expedite the process, and there will hopefully soon be a follow-up with the minister.
The Chairperson mentioned that outgoing DTIC Minister Patel referred the matter back to ITAC for updated economic and financial information by the applicants, particularly regarding post-COVID market reactions. RCL was working on the update, expected to be submitted by the end of October.
The Chairperson reported the need to address the situation regarding the applicant for the roasted groundnuts at Steinweg Bridge. The applicant was no longer involved in the groundnut industry, which raised questions about the validity of the application or future application. Moving forward, the industry would prioritise the outcome of the peanut butter application due to its significant impact, and in due course discuss the matter of a new roasted groundnuts tariff application.
Mr Kennedy reported that RCL will be diligently working to meet the timeline for what essentially amounts to a re-application. They will be focussing on completing all necessary details and aiming to finish the work by the end of October for submission to ITAC. He also mentioned that RCL will be seeking dialogue with both the Deputy Minister and the Minister of the DTIC. Once RCL submits the required information, they hope that it would be reviewed with the urgency and attention it warrants. Additionally, RCL would need letters of support from the rest of the industry to help move the matter forward.
Any feedback and information related to the Import Tariff applications would be communicated to all members of the forum.
Resolution:
- That any feedback and information related to the Import Tariff applications would be communicated to all members of the forum.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That any feedback and information related to the Import Tariff applications would be communicated to all members of the forum.
Japan Import Tariffs
(Resolutions 7.2.2.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
The Chairperson reminded that this longstanding point referred to the fact that Japan's import tariffs for South Africa were less favourable compared to those of other countries such as the USA. The industry identified the need to explore ways to reduce the import tariffs on South Africa for groundnuts exported to Japan. Earlier attempts to gain support from the DTIC have not been successful, but the matter was to remain on the agenda for future discussion and action plans.
The DTIC was already part of the largest Southern African Development Community (SADC) partnership with the USA. Therefore, the industry aims to consult with the department to understand the available opportunities and determine the initial steps and requirements for pursuing further discussions on the matter.
Mr Louw mentioned that a trade committee has been recently established under the Agricultural Negotiation Process (ANP) as part of the Grain Value Chain Roundtable. The committee will address issues such as the Japan import tariffs. He suggested that this topic will be added by Grain SA to the trade committee's agenda.
The Chairperson requested that Mr Louw provide the necessary information regarding the trade committee meetings should it be helpful for the Forum to be represented at such meetings or a meeting discussing this particular point.
Any feedback and updates regarding Japan's import tariffs would be communicated to all members of the forum.
Resolutions:
- That Mr Louw be requested to provide applicable information regarding the trade committee meetings to the Chairperson as and when required.
Chairperson
Mr Louw
Mr Keun - That feedback regarding the Japan Import Tariff would be communicated to the forum members.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That Mr Louw be requested to provide applicable information regarding the trade committee meetings to the Chairperson as and when required.
Industry Standards and Regulatory Matters
Crop Protection: Phase-out of certain active ingredients
(Resolution 7.3.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
- Mr Keun reported that he received the updated Maximum Residue Levels (MRL) list from the consultant and would distribute it to the forum members as soon as possible.
- The Chairperson noted ongoing concerning certain formulations that were moving towards restricted classifications. CropLife was coordinating efforts to gather as many responses as possible regarding essential products that could not be removed. Specifically, it was highlighted that Groundnuts were already facing a lack of available products and could not afford to lose any from the list.
The issue at hand was similar to that of commercial seed supply. Given the relatively small size of the industry, substantial input and resources were necessary to register crop protection products for Groundnuts. A request for comments was distributed, with a submission deadline of 30 October 2024. The documentation was shared with the selection facilities, as the Forum members primarily engage in direct consultation and communication with the primary producers. Most members were directly involved in groundnut production and could provide valuable insights. The inputs received from the role-players would be compiled for submission to CropLife by 30 October 2024.
Resolutions:
- That the updated Maximum Residue Levels (MRL) list be distributed to the forum members.
Mr Keun
SAGF - That the inputs received from role-players be compiled and sent to CropLife by 30 October 2024.
Chairperson
SAGF
Import Quality, Regulatory Control and MRL Testing
(Resolutions 7.3.2.1, 7.3.2.3 and 7.4.2.4 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
The Chairperson reported that during the earlier engagement with the Minister of Agriculture, the importance of continued cooperation with the Department was emphasised, and a request for such engagement was made to him.
The Chairperson mentioned that the Food Safety Forum has been revived with the first meeting scheduled for 28 October 2024, and the Chairperson was hopeful that this would create a platform for specific consultation and communication between industry and the statutory environment. Feedback would be communicated to the forum members.
The Chairperson said that the groundnut campaign on social media was mentioned under item 7.1.3.2.2 Generic Marketing and specifically referred to the article received on peanut allergies from Mr Snyman.
Resolution:
- That the Food Safety Forum has been revised, and feedback from the first meeting would be provided to the forum members.
Mr Keun
SAGF
Peanut Butter Recalls - Presentation Mr Luterek, Hahn & Hahn Food and Consumer Law Attorneys
(Resolution 7.3.2.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
Mr Luterek shared a presentation detailing his firsthand experience with peanut butter recalls, along with an overview of the complex recall process and the statutory roles and requirements of the various bodies involved. The information provided was substantial and the presentation would be communicated to the forum members. Mr Luterek also invited members to reach out to him or his firm for any specific support or information they might need.
During the discussion, it was reiterated that no consumers had complained about or reported any quality or health issues related to aflatoxin, even after the widespread media coverage and subsequent recalls. A clear distinction was noted between manufacturers complying with local and international food safety certifications and smaller or more informal operations, which remains a concern within the industry. The Department of Health was once again requested to participate in a workshop to discuss current control measures as they pertain to different statutory requirements.
The Chairperson expressed that, as the representative body of the industry, the Forum was growing frustrated in its efforts to obtain reliable information about this critical issue. While it was understood that some information might be restricted, they wished to know whether actions had been taken or if individuals and companies involved were still avoiding consequences.
As an industry that invests heavily in compliance, the Forum seeks clarity on whether appropriate measures have been implemented or if operations have been shut down. An explanation of the structures of the National Consumer Commission (NCC) and the Department of Health (DOH) would aid the Forum in understanding where the processes may have failed and provide insights and support for further safeguarding the industry.
The Chairperson thanked Mr Luterek for his time and wished him safe travels. She also mentioned that the presentation and contact details would be shared with forum members.
Further feedback and information regarding the recall of peanut butter would be communicated to all members of the forum.
Resolutions:
- That the presentation and contact details of Mr Luterek from Hahn & Hahn Attorneys would be attached to the agenda of the next meeting.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF - That feedback and information regarding the recall of peanut butter would be communicated to all members of the forum.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That the presentation and contact details of Mr Luterek from Hahn & Hahn Attorneys would be attached to the agenda of the next meeting.
- That the Food Safety Forum has been revised, and feedback from the first meeting would be provided to the forum members.
Local Quality Verification — Leaf Services
(Resolution 7.3.3.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
The Chairperson reported that the forum responded on the 12th of August 2024 to the Government Gazette Notice 2621 dated 28 June 2024, specifically addressing the latest inspection methodologies and templates.
The Chairperson mentioned that there has been no further communication from Leaf Services. However, the forum did express its concerns about the process and proposals put forward by Leaf Services to the Minister of Agriculture during a previous meeting. It seems that discussions regarding this matter were still ongoing within the department.
The Chairperson requested the administration to share the submission with Forum members to ensure insight into the submission and viewpoints, and to limit conflicting and confusing individual consequent submissions in future.
Feedback and information regarding Leaf Services would be communicated to all members of the forum.
Resolutions:
- That the Forum submission to Leaf Services will be shared with members as part of the Minutes.
Chairperson
SAGF - That feedback and information regarding Leaf Services would be communicated to all forum members.
Chairperson
SAGF
- That the Forum submission to Leaf Services will be shared with members as part of the Minutes.
Industry
Crop and Area Estimates
The forum took note of Annexure B and Ms Scheepers' presentation regarding the groundnut production forecast. The Forum was looking forward to the publication of Intentions to Plant on the 29th of October 2024 which would be indicative of new season expectations.
Ms Scheepers and the CEC team were again thanked for their valuable work and contribution to the industry.
SA Grain Information Services (SAGIS)
The committee noted the contents of Annexure C in the agenda.
Cognisance was taken of Mr Schultz's presentation on SAGIS, feedback, and market information. The Forum's appreciation for having access to such critical, objective and trustworthy information was again expressed.
Aflatoxin Reports
(Resolution 7.4.3.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 17/07/2024)
The Forum took note of Annexure D and the presentation in respect of aflatoxin of Mr Engelbrecht from PPECB.
The Chairperson reported that she contacted the Department of Agriculture to confirm recognised laboratories for aflatoxin testing and would create a document listing all registered laboratories, particularly for mycotoxin testing, to be featured in an upcoming newsletter or brochure.
PF and FFA testing were not mandatory requirements, and the Department does not accredit laboratories for these tests, as they would be considered commercial services. Should there be a need for PF or FFA testing, she would share the necessary laboratory information.
The Chairperson mentioned that she prepared a template for laboratories to provide their contact details, testing capabilities, Department of Agriculture approval status, and methods. Once compiled, the Chairperson would draft a newsletter or brochure outlining which laboratories offer specific tests.
The aim was to include all accredited laboratories in future reports and build on PPECB's efforts to track aflatoxin trends. The Chairperson proposed seasonal reports and invited members to suggest whether it must be three reports per season or assess the situation at the end of the season.
The Chairperson emphasised addressing discrepancies in aflatoxin test results among laboratories, suggesting a roundtable discussion to explore this further. Comments should be directed to her for inclusion in the project, and she would facilitate ongoing discussions.
Resolutions:
- That a newsletter or brochure outlining which laboratories offer specific tests would be drafted and distributed to the forum members.
Chairperson
SAGF - That a roundtable discussion addressing discrepancies in aflatoxin test results among laboratories be initiated.
Chairperson
SAGF
- That a newsletter or brochure outlining which laboratories offer specific tests would be drafted and distributed to the forum members.
Industry Project: Parity-Based Price Model
The Chairperson mentioned that a value chain meeting was held on 21 February 2024, facilitated by Dr Ferdi Meyer from BFAP.
The Chairperson reported that on the 5th of August 2024, she met with Mr Louw and Mr Vercueil from GrainSA. During this meeting, they reached a general agreement to revive a basic parity-based price model aimed at creating a transparent pricing structure. This decision addresses previous concerns about the fairness and substance of producer prices. The model has been developed collaboratively with stakeholders from all sectors and adheres to Competition Act regulations.
The intention was to publish a monthly report through the forum, using the same local and international data as GrainSA and SAGIS.
The primary goal of this parity-based price model was to more accurately represent farm-gate price levels, including differentiating between various grades of imports, instead of only reporting on Choice grade price trends. Participants involved in production and selection facilities expressed their support for this approach during a recent meeting.
The Chairperson mentioned that the next step involves surveying to ensure strict compliance with competition regulations. This survey would gather current selection costs to be incorporated into the pricing model, with plans to publish the findings at the end of November 2024.
The Chairperson emphasised that the model was not intended to fix or determine prices but rather to provide historical information available in the public domain. This will help farmers make informed pricing decisions based on international data and trends. The Chairperson committed that she would effectively package the information for sharing through electronic platforms.
Resolution:
- That the parity-based price model would be published via the Forum and that information packaged effectively to be shared with the forum members through electronic platforms.
Chairperson
SAGF
- That the parity-based price model would be published via the Forum and that information packaged effectively to be shared with the forum members through electronic platforms.
Articles
The forum took note of the content of the articles attached as Annexure E to the agenda:
- SA Grain: Risk of high South African MRLs on Grain Exports (Ms L Steyn, MRL Consultant Croplife SA).
- SA Grain: Navigating product recalls and the implication of aflatoxin contamination (Ms A Botha, SAGF).
General
International Peanut Forum: 9-11 April 2025
The forum took note that the next International Peanut Forum was scheduled from 9 to 11 April 2025 in Seville Spain and that the registration process would open on 30 October 2024.
Meeting date 2025
The next meetings were scheduled for 19 February, 16 July and 21 October 2025.
Adjournment
The Chairperson mentioned that Mr Christian Vercueil was leaving Grain SA to engage in new opportunities. The industry regretted losing him and while his participation and contributions will be missed, the Groundnut Forum sincerely wish him the best in his new endeavours and encourage him to keep in touch.
The Chairperson at the same time welcomed Mr Gerhard Burger, who would be joining the GrainSA groundnut team, noting that they look forward to his future involvement and support to the industry.
The Chairperson adjourned the meeting at 13:20.