Fruit industry plan calls for equitable access

Study undertaken over two years RAY SMUTS GOVERNMENT WILL have a clearer understanding of the needs and aspirations of the South African fruit industry in its entirety following the recent completion of an in-depth Fruit Industry Plan (FIP). The lengthy study, a strategic framework for the further development of the industry, was handed to agricultural minister, Lulu Xingwana, and deputy minister of trade and industry, Elizabeth Thabethe, at a ceremony in Pretoria. Two years-in-the-making, it was commissioned by Fruit SA, with four shareholders, the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum, Citrus Growers’ Association, Deciduous Fruit Producer Trust and the Subtropical Association, representing lychees, mangoes, avocados and macadamia nuts. The University of the Orange Free State was charged with compiling the study for which it conducted more than 40 workshops throughout the country, 777 individuals interacting with consultants between 2005 and 2007. According to Stuart Symington, CEO of the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum, the National Agricultural Marketing Council will be looking to drive the implementation of the FIP objectives with the industry. He makes the point, however, that funding to implement the objectives “remains a perennial challenge”. The FIP represents a common agricultural perspective to which government and industry will commit their efforts and resources. The overall strategic objective for a future fruit industry is defined as follows: • Enhancing equitable access and participation; • Improving global competitiveness and profitability; • Ensuring sustainable resource management. The study is clear that in order to make money now the industry will have to concentrate on doing even better than it is by committing the best people and key resources to improve the service offering currently provided.