Fruit processing hub mooted for Western Cape

In line with moves to promote beneficiation of South Africa’s exports, fruit processing has been singled out as one possible avenue. “There is no doubt that the Western Cape in particular could be a major fruit processing hub – not just for South Africa, but southern Africa,” according to John Mare, director of John HE Mare Associates. “At the moment the activities in this industry are very limited with only some deciduous fruit, vegetables, juices, some jams and sauces making up the range.” Mare said linking to the fresh value chain there was plenty of room for expansion although it would require major infrastructure investment. “One of the biggest challenges in that there is very limited investment in infrastructure at the moment and the local market is very small and fragmented.”