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Agriculture and Trade Ministers Announce New Strategy to Combat US Tariffs

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Agriculture and Trade Ministers Announce New Strategy to Combat US Tariffs

In a joint media briefing on Tuesday, 12 August 2025, Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen and Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau laid out the government’s five-pronged strategy to address the 30% tariffs unilaterally imposed by the United States. The briefing, a focal point for the agricultural community, revealed a two-track approach: a new, “ambitious” trade offer to the US and a robust plan to diversify export markets.

Negotiation Team Pushes for a Mutually Beneficial Deal

The South African government has assembled a high-level negotiation team to handle the discussions. Minister Tau confirmed that the trade offer was submitted in a manner that preserves regional integration and the Southern African Customs Union ( SACU) common external tariff. SACU, which accounts for 9% of South Africa’s global exports, is a vital economic bloc. Minister Steenhuisen’s team, which includes Department of Agriculture Director-General Mooketsa Ramasodi and agricultural attaché Dr. J.B. Jaftha, is engaging with US officials on the ground to address specific biosecurity issues while also consulting with other SACU member states on a unified approach.

Safeguarding Key Agricultural Exports

Central to the new strategy are concessions made in the agricultural sector to address longstanding US biosecurity concerns. As a “show of goodwill,” South Africa has implemented measures to ensure compliance with biosecurity protocols for poultry, blueberries, and pork.

  • Poultry: South Africa has granted market access to the US under a conditional self-ban and self-lifting system, enabling the US to leverage the 72,000-ton Tariff Rate Quota previously agreed upon in 2016.
  • Pork: Minister Steenhuisen clarified that the government has maintained its requirement for the removal of certain glands from US pork cuts. This is a critical measure to prevent the entry of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) disease, which could have a “disastrous” impact on South Africa’s domestic pork sector and food security.
  • Blueberries: Market access has been granted for US states certified as free of fruit fly, with mitigation measures in place for affected states.

These concessions have already yielded a positive result, with Minister Tau announcing that the USA-Africa Trade Desk will be shipping containers of poultry and pork to South Africa within two weeks, signaling that these specific issues have been resolved.

Diversification: A New “Plan A” for Resilience

The government is not putting all its eggs in the US basket. The diversification of export markets was described as a long-term “Plan A” for economic resilience, not a reactive “Plan B.” The government is aggressively pursuing new markets in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

The briefing highlighted several newly opened or advanced trade deals for specific agricultural products, including:

  • Avocados, maize, and beef in China, Japan, and India.
  • Table grapes and citrus in Vietnam.
  • Additionally, new stone fruit deals with China for plums, peaches, nectarines, apricots, and prunes are set to be signed at the upcoming G20 summit.

Support for Affected Farmers and Businesses

To mitigate the immediate economic fallout, the government has endorsed an economic response package for affected firms. Key components of this package include:

  • An Export Support Desk to serve as a direct point of contact for businesses. A government press release confirmed that since being operational, 23 companies have utilised the desk for assistance.
  • The Localisation Support Fund and Export and Competitiveness Support Programme to assist with mitigation strategies and provide working capital.
  • A Block Exemption for Exporters to enable collaboration and coordination among competing companies under competition legislation.
  • Collaboration with the Department of Employment and Labour to address potential job losses.

The Political Dimension: Challenges and the “New Normal”

While the focus remains on trade, the ministers acknowledged that the negotiations are complicated by non-trade issues raised by the US, such as empowerment legislation and land policy. Minister Steenhuisen described this as a “new normal” in global trade, where tariffs are being used to influence domestic political matters. The government maintains a firm stance on its sovereignty and has tasked Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola with handling these diplomatic challenges, allowing the trade and agriculture teams to focus on commercial matters.

This situation has also highlighted broader political complexities. Trade union Solidarity has become a key player, proposing its own five-point plan to the US, while sources within the Democratic Alliance have been critical of the government’s handling of the situation, adding a layer of internal political tension to the negotiations.

Experience the Ultimate Outdoor Expo at B’Sorah, Broederstroom

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Experience the Ultimate Outdoor Expo at B’Sorah, Broederstroom

Outdoor lovers, mark 15–17 August 2025 on your calendars! The Outdoor & Adventure Expo is heading to B’Sorah, a scenic 1,200-hectare working cattle farm near Hartbeespoort Dam, on the border of Gauteng and North West. Just 30km from Lanseria Airport and easily accessible from Joburg, Pretoria, Brits, and Rustenburg, B’Sorah is the ideal setting for this unique event.

First launched in 2023 in Grabouw, the expo concept combines an immersive outdoor lifestyle show with a real wilderness environment. Visitors can expect top exhibitors showcasing 4×4 vehicles, off-road trailers and caravans, camping gear, overlanding equipment, and braai essentials—all displayed in natural bushveld surroundings.

More Than an Expo – It’s an Experience

The event is not just a shopping expo—it’s a full outdoor experience. Guests can enjoy live 4×4 and caravan demonstrations on a custom-built course, self-drive trails, hiking and biking adventures, and even river swims. There’s something for everyone: food vendors, beer and gin gardens, wine and cheese tastings, live entertainment, and plenty of kids’ activities.

The venue also offers weekend camping, allowing visitors to truly embrace the outdoor lifestyle with sunsets, wildlife, and campfires. The central expo zone features a beautiful hall, shaded exhibition areas, and sprawling sports grounds. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or curious beginner, this is the ultimate outdoor gathering.

For more information visit www.lrclassic.com

Unconfirmed Swine Fever Outbreak Puts Bredasdorp Pig Farming Under Pressure

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Unconfirmed Swine Fever Outbreak Puts Bredasdorp Pig Farming Under Pressure

The agricultural community in the Western Cape is on high alert following a probable outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in the Bredasdorp area. The Cape Agulhas Municipality, in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Veterinary Services and several animal welfare organisations, is battling to contain the disease, which has caused a significant loss of pigs and threatens the livelihoods of local farmers.

The situation came to light at the end of July and has since escalated, highlighting the urgent need for strict biosecurity measures. While laboratory results are still pending to officially confirm ASF, the symptoms and rapid spread of the virus have left little doubt among officials.

A Rapidly Escalating Crisis

The timeline of the outbreak paints a grim picture of its rapid progression. The first pig carcasses were discovered on July 30 in and around a pig enclosure at Erf 1148 in a local informal settlement, with an initial tally of 24 deaths. By August 6, the number of fatalities had ballooned to 164, and sources on the ground reported that this figure had climbed to 330 by the following weekend.

In response, the municipality established a quarantine site that is monitored 24/7. Strict biosecurity measures are being enforced, including disinfecting individuals leaving the site and a complete ban on the movement of pigs or pork products. Animal welfare representatives from organisations like the Animal Anti-Cruelty League Bredasdorp and the NSPCA have also been on-site, overseeing the well-being of the animals and ensuring humane culling where necessary.

Critical Importance of Containment

The containment of this outbreak is of paramount importance for the agricultural sector in the region. Although ASF poses no risk to human health, it is a highly contagious disease with no cure or vaccine, making it devastating to pig populations. The outbreak has already led to a significant loss of income for the up-and-coming and backyard pig farmers in the area, a vital source of livelihood for many.

Furthermore, a failure to contain the virus could have far-reaching economic consequences. ASF can impact market access and trade, creating a ripple effect on the entire pork industry in the province and beyond. The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has stressed that biosecurity is crucial for keeping pigs healthy, regardless of farm size, and has highlighted the risk the disease poses to the province’s economy. The ongoing containment efforts are essential to protect the remaining herds and prevent a wider economic disaster.

Alternatively, another news angle could focus more on the social and animal welfare aspects, such as the tensions between officials and pig owners, the challenges of enforcing biosecurity in an informal settlement, and the broader discussion about the management of free-roaming animals in peri-urban areas.

Tim Atkin Honours South Africa’s Vineyard and Cellar Excellence in 2025 Shortlist

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Tim Atkin Honours South Africa’s Vineyard and Cellar Excellence in 2025 Shortlist

The 2025 edition of Tim Atkin MW’s South Africa Special Report, produced in partnership with Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth, will, for the first time in 13 years, announce a shortlist for five of its major awards. Winners will be revealed alongside the country’s top-scoring wines on 2 September.

Atkin says the move recognises the depth of skill and collaboration in South Africa’s wine sector, which continues to excel despite structural, economic, climatic and geopolitical challenges. “It’s an opportune moment to acknowledge the breadth of talent underpinning the sector,” he explains, noting the strong interconnection between grape growers and winemakers across the Cape.

Rising Stars

The Rising Star category highlights individuals combining vineyard knowledge with innovative winemaking. Stellenbosch’s Angus Paul, trained under Chris and Andrea Mullineux and Johan Reyneke, focuses on Chenin Blanc, Pinotage and Cinsault — varieties intrinsic to South African viticulture. Duncan Stuart, at Kloovenburg Wine & Olives in the Swartland since 2021, champions Mediterranean grapes like Garnacha Peluda, capitalising on the region’s soils and climate. Banele Vakele of Savage Wines and his own Tembela Wines label works exclusively with organically grown fruit, integrating sustainability with premium production. Megan van der Merwe of Beau Constantia manages both vineyard and cellar, optimising farm output while modernising consumer engagement.

Young Winemaker of the Year

This category recognises winemakers with proven vineyard-to-bottle expertise early in their careers. Stuart Botha of Tokara, formerly of Eagles’ Nest, has shown versatility with both whites and reds, including the icon Telos. Jolandie Fouché, who left Kloovenburg to run her Wolf & Woman Wines, focuses on Chenin Blanc and Pinotage sourced from top sites. Franco “Poenie” Lourens of Lourens Family Wines works without added yeast, acid or enzymes, sourcing from Swartland, Stellenbosch and Piekenierskloof. Emul Ross, at Hamilton Russell Vineyards since 2015, is a Cape Winemakers Guild member renowned for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and also crafts Tesselaarsdal wines.

Winemaker of the Year

All four nominees are Cape Winemakers Guild members with strong vineyard ties. Richard Kershaw (Elgin) produces site-specific Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah from clonally selected vines. Miles Mossop, formerly of Tokara, sources across the Western Cape for his Bordeaux blends and consults for The High Road. Gordon Newton Johnson (Upper Hemel-en-Aarde) and his co-winemaker wife Nadia are celebrated for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Albariño. Donovan Rall restores neglected vineyards in partnership with local growers, excelling in Syrah, Chenin, Cinsault and white blends.

Viticulturist of the Year

This award focuses on those ensuring long-term vineyard health. Fritz Breytenbach (Robertson) has farmed for over 60 years, pioneering regenerative agriculture. Danie Carinus (Stellenbosch) produces under the Carinus Family Vineyards label while supplying leading winemakers. Willem Joubert (Hartenburg Estate) employs cover crops and livestock grazing, with EOV certification for ecological outcomes. Nico Walters (Quoin Rock) has revitalised Stellenbosch vineyards and manages old-vine sites, adding Cape Agulhas land to production.

Best Cellar Door Experience

While tourism is a secondary focus in an agricultural context, the shortlisted farms — Gabriëlskloof (Bot River), Jordan Wine Estate (Stellenbosch Kloof), Steenberg Vineyards (Constantia), and Vondeling (Voor Paardeberg) — demonstrate how direct-to-consumer engagement supports farm sustainability.

Building South Africa’s Wine Legacy

This year’s shortlist underscores how viticulture and winemaking excellence are inseparable. From regenerative pioneers to young talents shaping the future, each nominee strengthens the agricultural foundation of South Africa’s wine economy. As the winners are announced on 2 September, the industry will not only celebrate fine wines but also the farmers and vineyard managers whose work sustains one of the country’s most valuable agricultural exports.

Shiraz SA Challenge Crowns Top Wines, Showcasing South Africa’s Vineyard Excellence

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Shiraz SA Challenge Crowns Top Wines, Showcasing South Africa’s Vineyard Excellence

The results of the 2025 Shiraz SA Challenge — South Africa’s benchmark competition for Shiraz, Shiraz-based blends, and Shiraz rosé — were announced on Thursday, 7 August 2025 at Blacksmith’s Estate in Paarl. The event celebrated the variety, quality, and innovation in South African Shiraz. Chair of Shiraz SA, Riaan Möller, noted a continued rise in innovation and terroir focus, not only in premium single-varietal Shiraz but also in blends and rosé.

Judging

The judging took place from 24–27 June at Paarl, the competition’s venue since 2013. A total of 173 wines were entered from across South Africa, with Stellenbosch leading in submissions. The panel was chaired by Edmund Terblanche of La Motte, joined by winemaker Elzette du Preez, Morgan Steyn of De Grendel, wine journalist Samarie Smith-Meletiou, and sommelier Georgio Meletiou of Spier. Cape Winemakers Guild protégé Nompumelelo Mosaka participated as junior panellist.

Shiraz SA’s judging method ensures impartiality: each judge receives an individual tasting order and no discussion is allowed during tasting. The process was supported by Wine MS, audited by Exceed Group, with glassware provided by Crystal Direct and bottle seals by Lebone Paarl Labels. Unused wine was donated to the Pebbles Project. Terblanche highlighted the wide stylistic range, from bold structured examples to fresher, whole-bunch styles, reflecting South Africa’s diverse Shiraz expression.

2025 Winners: Excellence Across Categories

Eighteen winners were announced in three categories.

Top 12 Shiraz

Babylonstoren Shiraz 2022; De Grendel Op die Berg Syrah 2023; De Grendel Op die Berg Syrah 2022; De Grendel Shiraz 2021; Diemersdal Shiraz 2023; Diemersdal Syrah 2023; MAN Vintners Skaapveld Syrah 2024; Saronsberg Provenance Shiraz 2023; Stellenrust ArtiSons Blueberry Hill Shiraz 2023; Stellenrust ArtiSons Missing Link Shiraz 2023; Tokara Shiraz 2022; Von The Sir Shiraz 2023.

Shiraz-based Blends

Babylonstoren Babel 2023; Flagstone Velvet Shiraz Blend 2023; Guardian Peak SMG 2022; Saronsberg Full Circle 2022; Spier Creative Block 3 2021.

Shiraz SA Challenge

Rosé

Eerste Hoop Shiraz Rosé 2025.

De Grendel achieved a record three Top 12 Shiraz awards. Diemersdal and Stellenrust each secured two places, while Saronsberg and Babylonstoren won in both Shiraz and blend categories.

Bernard Podlashuk Shiraz Trophy

The Bernard Podlashuk Shiraz Trophy, sponsored by Bellingham, recognises visionary winemaking, sustainability, creativity, and social responsibility. The 2025 trophy and R30 000 prize went to Journey’s End, known for its quality and community-focused initiatives. Finalists were DeMorgenzon and Stellenrust, with Stellenrust achieving back-to-back recognition.

Partnerships to Promote Top Wines

Main sponsor Vinventions SA, in partnership with newcomer Fermentis Lesaffre, supported the Challenge. Port2Port has been named official sales partner, offering award-winning wines online and in a newsletter to over 65 000 buyers. A curated 12-bottle Top 12 pack will be available, assembled by Pieter Badenhorst of For the Love of Wine.

The Shiraz SA Challenge continues to raise the bar for South African wine, with each year bringing new stories and expressions of excellence. Shiraz lovers are invited to celebrate National Shiraz Day on Thursday, 21 August, a tradition launched in 2021.

Herkouersdag 2025 by Roodebloem – Praktiese inligting vir volhoubare veeboerdery

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Herkouersdag 2025 by Roodebloem – Praktiese inligting vir volhoubare veeboerdery

Herkouersdag 2025 is een van die mees verwagte geleenthede op die Overberg Agri-kalender. Die inligtingsdag vind plaas op 14 Augustus by die Roodebloem-proefplaas buite Caledon en bring produsente, tegniese kundiges en landbouvennote bymekaar vir ’n dag van praktiese kennis, gedeelde ervarings en suksesvolle herkouerproduksie. Produsente wat op skaap, beeste, of albei fokus, sal baat vind by die uitgebreide program en die netwerkgeleenthede wat aangebied word.

’n Kragtige Program Vol Kenners en Praktiese Insette

Die dag begin met registrasie vanaf 07:30, gevolg deur die formele opening. Daarna bied die program ’n sterk kombinasie van wetenskaplike insigte en plaaswysheid. Hoogtepunte sluit in Dr Shaun Morris oor die realiteite van bek-en-klouseer in “Voorkom die Vlam”, Jacobus Le Roux wat lesse uit ’n leeftyd in diereteling deel in “Wat ek geleer het uit ’n lewe van diereteling”, en Fanie Dippenaar wat verduidelik hoe Responsible Wool Standard (RWS)-sertifisering ’n wolklas se reputasie beïnvloed. Verversings sal tydens die oggendpouse bedien word, met geleentheid om die uitstallings te besoek.

Praktiese Demonstrasies en Reguit Gesprekke

Na die pouse kan deelnemers lewende demonstrasies bywoon, insluitend insigte uit post-mortem ondersoeke en veilige veehanteringspraktyke. Een van die dag se belangrikste sessies is die paneelbespreking oor dekmetodes, waar ervare boere en kenners – Dirk Hanekom, Phillip Morkel, Cobus Uys, John Morris en Pieter-Hendrik du Toit – persoonlike ervarings, uitdagings en wenresepte deel. Daarna volg Lood Visser met “Lam slim, lam winsgewend” – ’n sessie oor winsgewende lamstelsels en produksiebeplanning.

Middagprogram: Streekspesifiek en Toepaslik

’n Ligte middagete en oop netwerking tussen die stalletjies bied geleentheid om nuwe idees te verken, met verskaffers te gesels en ander produsente te ontmoet. Die namiddagprogram is propvol praktiese kennis vir die plaas. Dr Coeleen Boje deel veeartsenywenke uit die veld, terwyl Dr Josef Van Wyngaard streekgebaseerde navorsing by Roodebloem bespreek en die waarde daarvan vir plaaslike produsente. GP van Rheede van Oudtshoorn sluit die program af met “Die groot verskil tussen ’n stil boer en ’n slim boer” – ’n vars perspektief oor kommunikasie in die landbou.

’n Dag wat om die Vuur Eindig

Die formele program sluit om 15:45, maar die gesprekke gaan voort met ’n spitbraai en gesellige verkeer vanaf 17:00.

’n Waardevolle Landboubyeenkoms

Herkouersdag is ’n viering van gemeenskap, ’n toewyding aan slimmer en volhoubare boerdery, en ’n dag vol inligting vir volhoubare veeboerdery. Die byeenkoms bied ’n unieke geleentheid vir produsente om kennis op te doen, ervarings te deel en toegang tot die jongste landboutendense en -tegnologieë te kry.

NAMPO Kaap 2025 Jou Sleutel tot Slim Boerdery

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NAMPO Kaap 2025 Jou Sleutel tot Slim Boerdery

Ná ’n eeu van merkwaardige groei in landboumasjinerie, staan boere vandag voor ’n nuwe, komplekse maar opwindende tegnologiese landskap. Die druk om méér te produseer met minder hulpbronne is tasbaar, en om die regte beleggingsbesluite te neem, is belangriker as ooit.

Dít is presies waar NAMPO Kaap 2025 inkom – as jou onmisbare vennoot in die navigasie van hierdie nuwe era van boerdery.

Dié toonaangewende landbou-ekspo vind van 10 tot 13 September 2025 plaas by Bredasdorp Park in Bredasdorp, en fokus op die tema: “Slim tegnologie vir doeltreffende hulpbronbestuur.” Dit is veel meer as net ’n uitstalling – dit is ’n dinamiese platform waar die toekoms van boerdery in aksie beleef kan word.

By NAMPO Kaap kry jy die unieke geleentheid om toonaangewende vervaardigers en verskaffers op een plek te ontmoet. Vra gerus vrae oor die nuutste innovasies – van selfbesturende trekkers en GPS-stelsels tot gevorderde sensors en presisiebesproeiing. Wat NAMPO egter werklik uniek maak, is die praktiese demonstrasies. Op spesiaal voorbereide demonstrasieterreine en proefpersele kan jy masjinerie in aksie sien. Dít is waar verkoopsbrosjures lewe kry: jy sien self hoe tegnologie in die praktyk werk.

Die ekspo bied ook ’n waardevolle platform vir die uitruil van kennis. Boere, navorsers en tegnologieverskaffers kan hier ontmoet en saam oplossings en ervarings deel. Of dit nou gaan oor die jongste IoT-toestelle, data-gedrewe besluitneming, of die toepassing van kunsmatige intelligensie in gewasbestuur – NAMPO Kaap bied die insigte en netwerke wat saak maak.

Moenie belangrike beleggingsbesluite sonder die nodige inligting neem nie. NAMPO Kaap is nie net ’n plek om te sien wat nuut is nie – dit is ’n belegging in ingeligte besluitneming en in die volhoubare sukses van jou boerdery. Dit bemagtig jou om die regte landboubesluite vir vandag én môre te neem.

More Than Metal: Why Choosing the Right Machinery is Vital for Your Farm’s Future

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More Than Metal: Why Choosing the Right Machinery is Vital for Your Farm’s Future

In today’s fast-paced agricultural world, a tractor, planter, sprayer, harvester, or other farm equipment is far more than just metal—it’s a trusted partner in your farm’s relentless pursuit of productivity. With increasing pressure on farmers to boost yields, cut waste, and stay competitive, mechanisation isn’t merely a choice; it’s the lifeline for your future.

Beyond Horsepower: Investing in Peace of Mind

Choosing the right machinery means balancing cost, performance, durability, and—most critically—unwavering support. Farmers across South Africa are looking beyond raw specs, asking the deeper questions that truly matter: Who built this machine with my challenges in mind? Who will stand by me when every moment counts? And will they be there, a reassuring presence, when the unexpected strikes? It’s not just about buying a product; it’s about investing in a name that understands your world, a name you can trust implicitly. The strongest machinery choices are backed by companies with proven reputations, consistent after-sales support, and a long-term, dedicated presence in the agricultural community.

The Heartbeat of Modern Mechanisation

Mechanisation has fundamentally transformed farming, breathing new life into our work. It significantly reduces back-breaking manual labour, redeems precious time, improves consistency, and empowers farmers to achieve more with less. From efficient seeding that promises stronger yields to advanced harvesting that captures every hard-won grain, the right machine doesn’t just do a job—it does it with precision, speed, and a commitment to sustainability. Today’s leading equipment brands are integrating smart features like GPS guidance, variable-rate application, and automation. These innovations further save time, optimise vital inputs, and enable confident decision-making on the go, crucial for every modern South African farmer facing an unforgiving landscape.

The Unseen Shield: Support and Maintenance

Yet, even the most powerful machine is vulnerable without the steadfast support behind it. When equipment falters in the middle of a crucial harvest or critical feeding season, it’s not just an inconvenience—it’s a heart-stopping financial risk. That’s why routine maintenance, unwavering reliability, easy access to expert service, and immediate availability of genuine parts must be at the very top of any buyer’s checklist. Trusted brands don’t vanish after the sale. They stand with you, offering dedicated service teams and highly trained technicians, ensuring not just emergency rescues, but also the meticulous regular servicing that keeps your machines operating at their absolute peak. Proactive maintenance is truly the silent guardian that separates a smooth, prosperous season from a devastating setback.

Every Detail, Every Dream

For example, advanced technologies like precise seeding systems ensure every square centimetre of your precious land counts, boosting the potential of your dreams. Balers built for our tough conditions stand strong, ready for the relentless demands of the season, and with post-season service readily available, they’re your unwavering promise for tomorrow. Every detail, from robust components to accessible service, contributes to your farm’s enduring performance and your family’s legacy.

The True Value of Your Investment

Ultimately, the real value of mechanisation extends far beyond the steel and wires—it truly embodies the people, the profound expertise, and the deeply held brand values that stand behind it. It’s about unshakeable trust: trust that support will be there when you are most vulnerable, trust that the machine will perform day in and day out with tireless reliability, and trust that your immense investment is safeguarded. Farming is a business, yes, but it’s also a way of life, filled with passion and dedication. And in this business, smart, heartfelt investments pay off. Choosing the right machinery partner today—and maintaining that equipment well—is the profound reason your farm will continue to thrive, productive and profitable, for generations to come.

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Lakeview Farm’s Orchard Renewal Sets Industry Benchmark

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Lakeview Farm’s Orchard Renewal Sets Industry Benchmark

This Women’s Month, Lakeview Farm in Villiersdorp is celebrating more than apples and pears. Under the leadership of Amoré Viljoen (34), the 100% black-owned commercial farming operation has transformed from ageing orchards into a competitive, high-performance unit — earning top rankings in production and quality.

Leading a Farm with Purpose

Owned by the Lakeview Trust, with 71 beneficiaries, Lakeview Farm forms part of the EGVV (Elgin, Grabouw, Villiersdorp, Vyeboom) region. Through a management agreement with Two-a-Day, Amoré oversees all day-to-day operations — from orchard management to strategic planning — with a focus on sustainable income for the community.

“Lakeview is not a token BEE farm – it’s a fully functional commercial farming unit,” she says. “Our goal is to maximise productivity, improve orchard quality, and build long-term sustainability.”

Investing in Orchard Renewal and Precision Management

When Amoré took over in December 2020, more than half of the orchards were over 30 years old, with outdated trellising and declining yields. “You are fighting to get production from these old trees and dated systems,” she recalls.

Her turnaround plan included removing unviable blocks, applying innovative pruning methods, and replanting with high-value cultivars such as RDS (Joya), Rosemarie Select, and Forelle on modern high-density systems. Funding through the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) helped accelerate this shift.

“Since 2020, we’ve planted new orchards using stronger rootstocks and tighter row spacing to increase yield per hectare,” she says. Precision irrigation scheduling and targeted fertiliser application have further improved productivity.

Currently, 64% of the 63-hectare farm is planted to apples and 36% to pears. Once the replanting programme is complete, 33 hectares will be in full production, with all fruit marketed globally through Tru-Cape.

Climate Challenges as Competitive Advantages

The farm’s north-facing slope brings heat stress and lower rainfall, but Amoré sees opportunity: “When our pest control and orchard practices are in place, the southeast weather in summer actually enhances the colour development of bi-colour varieties.”

Lower rainfall compared to neighbouring areas reduces disease pressure, making Lakeview ideal for cultivars like Golden Delicious and Packham’s Triumph. For Amoré, soil health remains the foundation: “Healthy soil equals healthy trees – and ultimately, healthy, market-ready fruit.”

From Technical Expertise to Leadership

Raised in Middelburg in the Eastern Cape, Amoré studied mixed agriculture at Grootfontein, specialising in Boer goats, before gaining technical experience in the citrus industry and later in pome fruit.

“When Two-a-Day approached me after five years in the pome industry, I saw it as a chance to grow — not just as a production manager but as someone making the full range of decisions – financial, strategic, and operational.”

Results that Speak for Themselves

In 2024, Lakeview’s BigBucks Gala orchard ranked number one across the Two-a-Day group for production performance, income per hectare, and pack-out percentage of class 1 fruit. “It shows what’s possible when you combine technical excellence with passion and determination,” Amoré says.

Looking ahead, she is excited about the role of new varieties and selections in strengthening South Africa’s competitive edge. “We don’t stay behind, and I think producers abroad can learn a lot from us.”

SA Needs New Strategy to Boost Agri-Food Exports to EU

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SA Needs New Strategy to Boost Agri-Food Exports to EU

Although South Africa remains the European Union’s (EU) largest trading partner in Africa, the country’s agri-food exports to the EU are facing growing challenges. A recent study by researchers from Stellenbosch University and Mendel University in the Czech Republic warns that trade with the EU is slowing down, mainly due to increasing non-tariff trade barriers and shifting demand patterns.

The study was conducted by Dr Melissa van der Merwe, Dr Francois Lategan, and Dr Ivo Zdráhal. It was published in the journal Agrekon and is based on two decades of data from 1999 to 2019. The researchers used the Constant Market Share (CMS) model to assess how South Africa’s competitiveness in the EU has changed over time, especially in the context of trade liberalisation and a global slowdown in agri-food value chains.

Trade Agreements No Longer Sufficient

The researchers found that while South Africa’s agri-food exports to the EU have increased over time, growth has noticeably slowed since the 2008 global financial crisis. This slowdown is linked to the long-term effects of the recession and a sharp rise in non-tariff measures (NTMs) — such as stringent food safety and quality standards — that make it more difficult for local exporters to access EU markets.

They argue that existing trade agreements, once seen as key to export growth, are no longer enough to secure long-term competitiveness for South African producers in the EU.

Horticulture is the Star Performer

The study groups South Africa’s agri-food exports into four categories: bulk commodities, processed intermediate goods (used in production), horticultural products, and consumer-ready goods. Among these, horticulture stands out as the leading category. Citrus, grapes, wine, apples and pears, and avocados are the top five agri-food exports to the EU.

Horticultural exports rose from 58% of all agri-food exports in 1999 to more than 65% by 2019, according to Eurostat data. Wine is the most significant export in the consumer-ready category. In terms of what the EU imports overall, processed intermediate goods and horticultural products each account for about 15%.

EU Market is Shifting

The EU’s agri-food imports are not evenly spread. Central European countries receive nearly half of total imports, while Northern and Southern EU countries each take in about 20%. Eastern Europe, though still the smallest market, is growing.

However, the study notes that growth in agri-food imports has slowed in many regions. In the decade following the 2008 crisis, growth in Eastern Europe fell from 6.5% to 3.5% per year. In Southern Europe, it dropped from 6.3% to 2.6%. Central and Northern Europe show more stability, but even there, growth has plateaued.

What Should SA Do Next?

The researchers recommend a strategic shift. South Africa should prioritise exporting agri-food products with rising demand, especially horticultural goods. It should also target fast-growing EU markets such as parts of Eastern Europe.

Crucially, the country needs to invest in domestic infrastructure — including container ports and reliable electricity — to reduce transaction costs and improve competitiveness. These improvements would help local producers compete more effectively with heavily subsidised EU farmers.

In addition, South Africa should actively engage in discussions with EU partners to revisit non-tariff trade barriers and resolve disputes that limit market access. Helping local exporters adapt to strict EU regulations is also essential.

Looking Beyond the EU

While the EU remains South Africa’s most valuable trade partner, the researchers stress the importance of expanding into fast-growing markets outside of Europe. These include BRICS countries, South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and others. By identifying and targeting these markets, South Africa can reduce its over-reliance on the EU and find new opportunities for its agri-food exports.

A Wake-Up Call for Policymakers

The researchers emphasise that strong agri-food exports bring major development benefits — including job creation, technology adoption, and improved market access. They hope their findings will help the agricultural sector and government policymakers understand South Africa’s competitive position and take strategic action to improve it.

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