Less than one percent of the total sales value in the national fresh produce markets comes from small-holder or Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises SMME farmers. This finding is part of the provisional report from the fresh produce market inquiry conducted by the Competition Commission.
The inquiry focused on five types of fruit and six types of vegetables including citrus fruit, spinach and potatoes. The purpose of the investigation was to determine whether any aspects of the fresh produce value chain hinder, limit or distort market competition.
The inquiry listed deteriorating infrastructure and inconsistent bylaws among challenges faced by smallholder farmers in gaining market access.
Deputy Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu says, The inquiry also found that SME Small and Medium Enterprises farmers particularly HDP Historically Disadvantaged Persons farmers find it difficult to sell their produce in the national fresh produce market despite being the least costly route to market.
VIDEO Fresh Produce Inquiry releases preliminary report
