Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa

Empowering Future Leaders in Grain Management

Agbiz Grain, together with Senwes and Peritum Agri, celebrated the launch of the Grain Depot Manager Programme on Friday, March 8. This collaborative effort, developed over four years, is a testament to their commitment to fostering skills and expertise in the agricultural sector.

The event featured speakers Emmie Pietersen, Director of Peritum Agri Institute; Heinrich Henning, Operations Manager at Senwes; and Wessel Lemmer, General Manager of Agbiz Grain, who shared their insights and excitement about this innovative programme.

What's the programme about?

The Grain Depot Manager Programme caters to the needs of enterprises handling grains and oilseeds, especially those serving farmers. It aims to equip learners with the skills to operate effectively as Grain Depot Managers. The programme emphasises achieving operational efficiencies, responsible resource utilisation, and maintaining the mechanical integrity of bulk grain handling and storage units.

What Learners Can Expect

Upon completion, learners will be equipped to:
Manage and achieve operational targets effectively.
Lead and manage staff for smooth business operations.
Utilize operational resources responsibly.
Ensure grain handling and storage efficiency while meeting quality standards.
Conduct precise grain and oil seed grading processes.

Known officially as the Occupational Certificate: Grain Depot Manager, this qualification signifies a significant step towards enhancing skills in the grain and oilseed sector. Agbiz Grain is excited about the positive impact it will have on advancing professional capabilities in the industry. This programme not only shapes future leaders but also strengthens the foundation of our agricultural community. By Temba Msiza, Agbiz Communication Officer

Published: 12/03/2024

Silo unavailability platform more accessible

The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) recently announced an improved silo unavailability platform, which allows members to see which silos are unable to outload JSE stock for specified reasons. This means that the JSE will no longer be responsible for updating its website, but storage operators will. Mechanisms have been put in place to ensure that the JSE monitors the updates in real-time. The platform can be accessed via the JSE’s Client Portal webpage, under the reports section, or by clicking here. – JSE Market Communications

Published: 01/02/2024

Proposed grading regulations disputed

Grain SA, the South African Grain Farmers Association (SAGRA) and the National Chamber of Milling were unable to reach consensus in 2023 on proposed changes to the maize grading regulations. The Agbiz Grain Quality Working Group’s final submission to the DALRRD was compiled in the interest of the sector.

DALRRD finalised the proposed changes by Grain SA and the SAGRA, and submit them to the World Trade Organization (WTO) for comment. Agbiz Grain’s position was that a consensus should be reached between producers and processors before any changes could be implemented.

Agbiz Grain’s query related to which act mandates DALRRD to prioritise one industry over another. We expect that the proposed changes to the maize grading regulations will remain in dispute in 2024. The DALRRD submitted the regulations to the WTO for comments on 23 October 2023. The deadline for comments was 22 December 2023. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 01/02/2024

Peritum accredited to present depot manager course

The Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) has set policies in accordance with which it accredits skills development providers (SDPs). This process ensures that education and training in occupations and trades offered in the country are credible and valid, and presented in accordance with the Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act 97 of 1998) and the Continuing Education and Training Act, 2006 (Act 16 of 2006).

The QCTO recently accredited Peritum Agri Institute to offer the Occupational Certificate: Grain Depot Manager, for a period of five years (15 January 2024 until 14 January 2029). The accreditation process included a site inspection of Peritum Agri Institute’s premises. The course is presented at NQF level 5 and the minimum credit requirement is set at 235. – Peritum Agri Institute

Published: 01/02/2024

Learning modules available soon

Lizelle Jacobs, director of Mind Alive, has been contracted by Agbiz Grain to collaborate with experts to finalise the curriculum question bank for each learning module of the Grain Depot Manager and Grain Grader curricula in 2024.

Completion of the online question bank workshop is expected early this year. Students will be able to enrol through QCTO accredited provider, Agri Peritum Agri Institute, to offer the Occupational Certificate: Grain Depot Manager (NQF level 5) for a period of five years starting 15 January 2024. In the meantime, Agbiz Grain has qualified for financial support on behalf of interested students through the Agricultural Sector Education and Training Authority (AgriSETA). Agbiz Grain members who wish to register their training facilities for student assessment must arrange an inspection with AgriSETA or the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations. Contact annelien@agbizgrain.co.za for more information. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 01/02/2024

Future SHEQ workshops

The Agbiz Grain Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) Committee has identified relevant topics to be addressed each quarter in an online workshop format. As in previous years, this initiative will be led by experts. Santam Agriculture accredits these workshops for continuous professional development (CPD) points – remind your SHEQ manager and staff to register and attend.

In addition, members have identified the need for an in-person mini symposium for Agbiz Grain members in order to network on SHEQ issues. SHEQ matters and legislation in the grain handling and storage sector will be discussed. During a meeting held on 22 January, the requirements were set for the mini symposium which is being planned for September 2024. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 01/02/2024

Possible self-audits in the pipeline

The Agbiz Grain Steering Committee accepted the recommendation of the Agbiz Grain SHEQ Working Group to investigate the possibility of a self-audit of members by a third-party service provider. The goal is to assess compliance with SHEQ-related matters that are important to the insurance and financial sector.

Implementing the self-audit process will be an attempt to curb the escalating cost of insurance and demonstrate the insurability of the handling and storage sector. NWK first raised the issue of the escalating cost of insurance and remedies needed to address it.

The Agbiz Grain SHEQ Working Group, the Aggregate and Sand Producers Association of Southern Africa (Aspasa), and representatives from the insurance and financial sectors will meet at the Grain Building in Pretoria on 14 and 15 March 2024. Agbiz Grain members who have already confirmed their attendance are Kaap Agri, AFGRI, TWK Agri, GWK, VKB, OVK, BKB GrainCo and Overberg Agri.

It is important that the grain handling and storage sector, in collaboration with the financial sector, decides which issues need to be prioritised and addressed. Aspasa will share and facilitate the two-day working session based on its experience and success in open-cast mining. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 01/02/2024

Crime and fraud prevention discussed

The Agbiz Grain Crime Prevention Working Group met online on 18 January 2024. The aim of this working group is to discuss best practices in the prevention of crime and fraud in the grain handling and storage business environment. The outcome of the first meeting already provided strong guidance on the latest and most effective measures to prevent financial losses due to crime and possible future interventions.

Wimpie Nel, an investigator specialising in crimes targeting the grain storage sector, explained the importance of sufficient evidence to secure successful convictions. Wesco Forensic Services, which employs forensic science and legal consultants, also contributed to the discussion. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 01/02/2024

JSE daily storage rate probed

In 2011, the Competition Commission (CC) found the Grain Silo Industry (GSI (Pty) Ltd) guilty of breaching the Competition Act, 1998 (Act 89 of 1998) by fixing the JSE’s maximum daily storage rate of the South African Futures Exchange (Safex). Since 2008, when the CC investigation started, the JSE has not received input from the GSI to assist in determining the JSE maximum daily storage rate.

In 2011, an independent consultancy was appointed to evaluate the base storage rate for 2012 to determine whether it reflected the actual cost of storage. Since 2012, the basic storage rate has been adjusted annually in line with the producer price index (PPI) of final manufactured goods. The consultancy’s evaluation of the base rate was the result of a survey of the entire industry, not just GSI members. Agbiz Grain has stressed the importance of the JSE assessing the base rate by capturing the relevant actual cost items that contribute to the cost of storage.

The Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy’s report, Grain Storage Cost Definitions, is an attempt to highlight the importance of getting the JSE daily storage rate right. Agbiz Grain strongly recommends that the JSE also acquire the Nel and Schoeman (1991) research report carried out for the Maize Board. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 01/02/2024

Didion Milling pleads guilty

Didion Milling Inc of Cambria in Wisconsin in the United States (US), pleaded guilty to two federal criminal charges and agreed to pay millions in restitution for a 2017 explosion at its Cambria mill that killed five workers and injured others, according to the US Department of Justice (DOJ).

Didion Milling and six of its managers and superintendents were charged in May 2022 in a nine-count criminal indictment for its alleged role in failing to ensure work was done to safely handle combustible maize dust and keeping deliberate false records before the explosion on 31 May 2017.

According to court documents, Didion Milling was required to operate ‘baghouses’, equipment designed to prevent particulate matter, such as maize dust, from being released into the environment from the maize mill. From at least 2015 to May 2017, Didion Milling employees, including shift workers and shift superintendents, made false entries in the mill’s ‘baghouse logs’, disguising data meant to monitor and document whether the mill’s baghouse equipment was working properly to filter particulates from the air. – WORLD-GRAIN.com

Published: 01/02/2024

White wheat success for the US

US based Star of the West Milling Co’s investment in an agronomy business has not only provided diversification, but also played a crucial role in sustaining white wheat production in Michigan, according to Michael Fassezke, the president of the milling company. Historically, Michigan, along with Ontario and New York, was a significant producer of soft white winter wheat. Today, New York and Ontario contribute very little, but Michigan maintains a 50/50 ratio of white and red wheat.

Star of the West’s influence, combined with their relationships with producers, has kept white wheat prominent, especially in the Thumb Region and Saginaw Valley. Fassezke emphasised that their unique market niche relies on soft white wheat’s essential qualities for bran and speciality products.

Growers in the region shifted to soft red due to perceived risks such as Fusarium head blight and sprout damage. Fassezke clarified that soft white is not more susceptible to Fusarium but acknowledged its vulnerability to sprouting. Star of the West addresses this by encouraging early harvesting and offering free drying services. Despite challenges, Michigan millers, supported by Star of the West, have successfully maintained white wheat plantings. – WORLD-GRAIN.com

Published: 01/02/2024

Quality vs yield: US strikes a balance

Wheat experts gathered at the Wheat Quality Council’s annual meeting in Kansas City in the US to emphasise the critical balance between high yields and quality in wheat production. Traditionally, producers prioritised yield, but concerns arise as higher yields may compromise wheat quality.

Steve Wirsching, vice president of US Wheat Associates, stressed the need for the US to enhance wheat quality to maintain its global market standing, especially amid rising geopolitical tensions affecting major exporters such as Russia and Ukraine. Quality, particularly protein content, is vital, yet higher-yielding wheat often exhibits lower protein levels, impacting its suitability for baking.

Adverse environmental conditions, including extreme drought, have challenged wheat cultivation, with 85 to 90% of hard red winter wheat facing drought in Kansas. Despite these challenges, the surviving high-quality winter wheat suggests that plant breeders’ investments have been worthwhile.

Various programmes, including the National Wheat Yield Contest and the Kansas Wheat Rx programme, aim to help producers achieve both high quality and yields. By focussing on modern plant breeding and identifying optimal varieties, these initiatives aim to ensure wheat’s crucial role in feeding future generations. – WORLD-GRAIN.com

Published: 01/02/2024

Agbiz Grain fumigation workshop: 5 March 2024

The Agbiz Grain Fumigation Working Group is planning a workshop to address pressing concerns regarding regulations and the quality of training for fumigators. These concerns affect fumigation in the grain handling and storage environments. The workshop will be held on 5 March 2024 at Nampo Park in Bothaville, and will include presentations by Dr Gerhard Verdoorn of the Griffon Poison Information Centre and CropLife SA, and Leonard Henning, member of the South African Pest Control Association Board.

Dr Verdoorn will present his views on the range of products available for fumigation, the classification of hazards and risks associated with classes of different fumigants. Henning will present his views on a renewed competence framework for pest control operators, industry self-regulation and CPD. Contact annelien@agbizgrain.co.za for more information. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 01/02/2024

A range of initiatives supporting food and climate action were announced during the first thematic session of the World Climate Action Summit, featuring by Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy, Fiame Naomi Mata?afa, Prime Minister of Samoa, Samia Suluhu Hassan, andJoko Widodo, President of Indonesia and Anthony J. Blinken, Secretary of State for the United States of America.
More than $2.5 billion has been mobilized by the global community to support the food-climate agenda, H.E. Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment and COP28 Food Systems Lead, announced during the session.
Over 130 countries – representing over 5.7 billion people, 70 per cent of the food we eat, nearly 500 million farmers and 76 percent of total emissions from the global food system – have signed up to the leaders-level ‘COP28 UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action.’
The UAE and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation launched a $200 million partnership for Food Systems, Agriculture Innovation and Climate Action, focused on agricultural research, scaling agricultural innovations and funding technical assistance for implementing the Declaration.
Addressing both global emissions and protecting the lives and livelihoods of farmers living on the frontline of climate change are core elements of the COP28 Food Systems Agenda.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 1 December: The COP28 Presidency today announced that 134 world leaders have signed up to its landmark agriculture, food and climate action declaration. Also announced was the mobilization of more than USD$2.5 billion in funding to support food security while combatting climate change and a new partnership between the UAE and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for food systems innovation in the fact of climate change.

The ‘COP28 UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action’ (the Declaration) was announced at a special session of the World Climate Action Summit (WCAS), led by Joko Widodo, President of Indonesia Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy, Fiame Naomi Mata?afa, Prime Minister of Samoa and Anthony J. Blinken, Secretary of State for the United States of America. The Declaration addresses both global emissions while protecting the lives and livelihoods of farmers who live on the frontlines of climate change.

“There is no path to achieving the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement and keeping 1.5C within reach, that does not urgently address the interactions between food systems, agriculture, and climate,” H.E. Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment and COP28 Food Systems Lead, said.

“Countries must put food systems and agriculture at the heart of their climate ambitions, addressing both global emissions and protecting the lives and livelihoods of farmers living on the front line of climate change. Today’s commitment from countries around the world will help to build a global food system fit for the future,” she added.

The 134 signatory countries to the Declaration are home to over 5.7 billion people and almost 500 million farmers, produce 70 percent of the food we eat, and are responsible for 76 percent all emissions from global food systems or 25 percent of total emissions globally.

Endorsement of the Declaration will help in strengthening food systems, building resilience to climate change, reducing global emissions, and contributing to the global fight against hunger, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Declaration – the first of its kind for the COP process - stresses the need for common action on climate change, which adversely affects a large portion of the world’s population, particularly those living in vulnerable countries and communities.

“Today signals a turning point, embedding sustainable agriculture and food systems as critical components in both dealing with climate change and building food systems fit for the future. Together we will deliver lasting change for families, farmers and the future,” said H.E Almheiri.

While food systems are vital for meeting societal needs and enabling adaptation to climate impacts, they are also responsible for as much as a third of global greenhouse gas emissions. Many smallholder farmers in low- and middle-income countries are also facing heightened vulnerability to climate change.

Key announcements made at the session today include:

The UAE and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation launched a USD$200 million partnership for Food Systems, Agriculture Innovation and Climate Action, focused on agricultural research, scaling agricultural innovations and funding technical assistance for implementing the Declaration.
The UAE is joining the CGIAR, a global partnership that unites international organizations engaged in research about food security, resilience, and climate adaptation.
COP28 and a group of partners announced a collaborative effort to offer countries quality technical cooperation and to help deliver on the objectives of the Declaration. The partners behind the Technical Cooperation Collaborative pledged more than USD$200 million in new and newly aligned support, while also committing to increase coordination across their wider portfolios.
COP28 UAE, together with the World Business Council on Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), supported by the UN Climate Change High-Level Champions, launched the Action Agenda on Regenerative Landscapes. This will see leading food and agriculture organizations join forces to scale regenerative agriculture, transitioning 160 million hectares to regenerative agriculture by 2030, accompanied by USD$2.2 billion in future investment, and engaging 3.6 million farmers world-wide.
The High-Level Champions, in collaboration with non-government actors including farmers, Indigenous Peoples, consumers, cities, youth, businesses, financial institutions, philanthropies and others, launched a Call to Action for Transforming Food Systems for People, Nature, and Climate, in support of the Declaration and to highlight the urgent need to take action on food systems by all actors.

The COP28 Food Systems and Agriculture Agenda has four pillars, covering national leadership, non-state actors, scaling up innovation, and finance.

COP28 is also working with representatives from every stage of the food system and agriculture value chain, including farmers, civil society, businesses, and local governments to accelerate the transition to regenerative agriculture.

The full list of countries who have signed the Declaration can be found here.

ENDS

Please click here for a factsheet on the announcement.

Notes to Editors COP28 UAE:

COP28 UAE will take place at Expo City Dubai from November 30-December 12, 2023. The Conference is expected to convene over 70,000 participants, including heads of state, government officials, international industry leaders, private sector representatives, academics, experts, youth, and non-state actors.
As mandated by the Paris Climate Agreement, COP28 UAE will deliver the first ever Global Stocktake – a comprehensive evaluation of progress against climate goals.
The UAE will lead a process for all parties to agree upon a clear roadmap to accelerate progress through a pragmatic global energy transition and a “leave no one behind” approach to inclusive climate action.

2024 Agbiz Congress: REGISTER NOW!

Be sure to diarise the 2024 Agbiz Congress that will take place from 5 to 7 June next year. This exciting annual congress to be held at Sun City in North West, will be exploring the challenges facing the agricultural sector. The theme of the congress is “Sustaining growth in a changing global landscape”.

Registrations are open and stakeholders are invited to register now to secure their seat. Click here to register.

Published: 03/11/2023

Fumigation in the spotlight

It is becoming increasingly important that the commercial storage sector, including producers who store grain with the goal of making it available for commercial purposes at a later date and not just for own use, keep a watchful eye on fumigation requirements and acceptable levels of sectoral fumigation standards. Certainty on various aspects is needed in order to maintain and improve sufficient access to the latest fumigation products available.

Keep an eye out for news on Agbiz Grain’s fumigation policy and regulations workshop during the first quarter of 2024. The workshop will be held in collaboration with Dr Gerhard Verdoorn of CropLife SA. Contact Annelien at annelien@agbizgrain.co.za if you wish to attend. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 03/11/2023

Passport system in a cul-de-sac

Agbiz Grain invested heavily and assembled a panel from the United States, United Kingdom, France and South Africa, led by Jannie de Villiers, former CEO of the National Chamber of Milling and Grain SA, to discuss the issue of traceability and challenges of handling and storing bulk grain around the world. During the panel discussion at the 2023 Agbiz Grain and Oilseeds Value Chain Symposium, a generic passport system was referred to. This system is voluntary and not legally enforceable. Similar contractual systems already exist between producers, storage operators, and buyers who share the costs and benefits thereof.

However, stakeholders have different views due to the Competition Act guidelines, such as those relating to buyer power guidelines with respect to producers with a turnover of R35 million and less. This is dangerous ground for stakeholders involved in a sector that may decide to turn customers away on the basis of a mutual horizontal agreement that is not legally enforceable. Also, stakeholders cannot pursue initiatives that potentially interfere with existing agreements and business practices of value chain members and their customers.

Agbiz Grain has responded to the need for a generic passport system by creating the Agbiz Grain Food Safety Conduct, which can be adapted annually at the request of other applicable sectors, within the given legal requirements, and where it has merit. The system has already been implemented. As such, Agbiz Grain recognises the legal obligations that the storage sector must meet without affecting the competitiveness and market access of any stakeholder.

The implementation of a generic passport system is, however, not necessarily supported throughout. To comply with Competition Act requirements (including buyer power guidelines) and issues of traceability, the buyer should provide the passport to the contracted storage operator. This is because the buyer/processor sets the requirements for traceability concerning mycotoxins and MRLs for his product. Grain buyers can contact Agbiz Grain members and communicate their needs individually in order to negotiate a workable system, where it is practically feasible, as there are already some workable examples in South Africa. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 03/11/2023

Crop estimates remain unchanged

The latest Crop Estimates Committee (CEC) report released on 26 October indicates that the size of the commercial maize crop in South Africa will remain unchanged at 16,395 million tonnes. The area estimate for maize is 2,586 million ha, and the expected yield is 6,34t/ha. The estimated maize crop is 5,98% or 925 225 tonnes greater than the 2022 crop. The production forecast of white maize remained unchanged at 8,5 million tonnes and the yellow maize production forecast remained unchanged at 7,895 million tonnes.

Also unchanged is the sunflower seed production forecast at 729 110 tonnes, soya beans at 2,755 million tonnes, and groundnut production at 51 910 tonnes.

Wheat production is forecast at 2,167 million tonnes, which is 1,66% or 35 450 tonnes more than the previous forecast with an expected yield of 4,03 t/ha. Barley production is forecast at 380 120 tonnes and canola at 237 450 tonnes. The expected oats crop is 41 600 tonnes and sweet lupine production is 19 200 tonnes.

The fourth production forecast will be released on 28 November 2023. – CEC media release

Published: 03/11/2023

Transnet cancels private sector contract

Transnet’s efforts to get private sector players to run its crucial railway lines have bombed further, with the state-owned transport group cancelling a contract awarded to one of only two companies that showed interest in partnering with it.

Transnet Freight Rail, the largest division at Transnet in terms of revenue generation, recently announced that it had cancelled a conditional contract with Traxtion Sheltam, which emerged as a successful bidder in November 2022 to operate the Kroonstad to East London railway line.

The line, known as the Cape Corridor, is crucial for South Africa’s economy as it is the main line for manganese exports and agricultural commodities. Transnet said the cancellation of the contract was by mutual agreement with Traxtion Sheltam, which operates railway lines in several African countries. – Daily Maverick

Published: 03/11/2023

Large part of Ukraine grain storage lost

Ukraine has lost nearly 15% of its grain storage capacity in the war with Russia, threatening its role as a key food supplier to the world. The US government-backed conflict observatory said Russians have seized 6,24 million tonnes’ worth of food storage capacity, and that another 2,25 million tonnes of capacity in Ukrainian hands had been destroyed.

In total, the war has removed around 8,5 million of Ukraine’s 58-million-tonne storage capacity, threatening the country’s future ability to get crucial supplies of wheat, maize and sunflower oil to the world market, according to the report.

As a result, producers are running out of room to store their output for shipment, which could discourage plantings for the next crop, especially winter wheat, the report said. – France 24

Published: 03/11/2023

Anton Duvenhage welcomed to steering committee

Anton Duvenhage, the executive manager of grains at TWK Agri, replaced Barnie de Klerk as a new Agbiz Grain steering committee member on 1 September this year. Agbiz Grain and its members welcomes Anton at the table.

Published: 03/11/2023

US storage capacity can buffer disruptions

Mississippi River water levels have reached record lows in the first half of October this year. At Memphis, for example, the river stage, or height of the river’s surface relative to the zero-stage level of 189,9 feet, fell to a record low of minus 11,5 feet on 11 October.

These low river levels have reduced and delayed barge traffic and increased transportation costs for producers during peak harvest season. One factor that helps mitigate the impact of transportation disruptions is the quantity of available grain storage in on-farm and off-farm facilities.

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) latest Grain Transportation Report from the Agricultural Marketing Service highlighted national agricultural statistics service data on grain storage capacity for both on-farm (including bins, cribs and sheds used to store grains and oilseeds on farms) and off-farm facilities (including elevators, warehouses, terminals, mills and crushers). As of 1 December 2022, the US had 25,4 billion bushels worth of total grain storage capacity: 11,8 billion (47%) of off-farm storage and 13,6 billion (53%) of on-farm storage.

A general increase in both on-farm and off-farm storage is a good sign for producers facing uncertain transportation conditions. – FarmWeek Now

Published: 03/11/2023

Grain storage silos market size analysis

According to a new report, the worldwide grain storage silos market size is estimated at US$1,76 billion in 2023, and is expected to reach US$2,17 billion by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 4,2% during the forecast period of 2023 to 2028.

The growing demand for grain storage from the leading grain-producing countries in the world, namely the US, Russia, India, Brazil, and others, have driven the grain storage silos industry during the study period. Further, rising input costs and heavy investments required in grain storage led to a rise in demand for silos across all regions. According to the International Grains Council, the global wheat stock increased from 276 million metric tonnes in 2020, and the stock accounted for 278 million tonnes in 2021. This increase in the production of grains led to the market’s growth in the forecast period.

North America held the largest share in using silos for grain storage in 2020. As per the USDA, in the last ten years, on-farm storage increased by 1,6 billion bushels and off-farm storage by 2,2 billion bushels, registering a growth of 14 and 24%, respectively.

The recent imposition of tariffs by both the US and China on primary commodities led to the accumulation of grain surplus for US producers, resulting in 20% of the total available storage filled with soya bean, maize, and wheat. It is anticipated to further boost the need for more large storage silos across the country during the forecast period, as the existing ones are reaching full capacity. Click here for the complete report. – Yahoo Finance

Published: 03/11/2023

Malawi’s first large-scale wheat harvest

Malawi has yielded its first successful large-scale wheat harvest after years of attempts to find a variety of grain suitable for its soil. Wheat farming is seen as a solution to mitigate the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on grain imports to the African continent.

Ronald Ngwira, chief executive officer of Malawi-registered US company Pyxus Agriculture Limited, which operates a farm in central Malawi for the diversification of wheat seeds, said about four varieties of wheat have been found suitable for Malawian soil out of approximately 80 varieties trialed since 2019.

Agricultural experts in Malawi say wheat farming is expected to produce about 90 tonnes, which is 50% of the country’s wheat consumption. – Africa.com

Published: 03/11/2023

Concerns regarding Leaf Services’ inspection costs

Since deregulation, stakeholders have ensured that commodities meet the grading specifications set out in contracts. In this regard, it is important to note that the Agricultural Product Standards Act facilitates trade, and not food safety. Product is checked when producers deliver it to the silo, when a buyer’s consignment is outloaded at a silo, when it arrives at the mill door or when the processor disputes the quality. If it differs

from the contract, a dispute is declared. The additional cost of around R18 million to perform this non-essential function is causing concern as the sector has to pay for services from an appointed agent that the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) cannot provide from public funds.

In this regard, DALRRD and Leaf Services met with industry on 19 September this year. Since the meeting, the assignee has been contacting individual sectors to discuss the proposed methodology to be established

before the end of the year. The projected cost of inspecting processed products is R30 million. In total, the introduction of these services will cost the grain and oilseeds sector an additional R48 million.

Engagement is ongoing and Agbiz Grain and other stakeholders will use every opportunity to express its concerns and propose more affordable alternatives, where possible. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 03/11/2023

UK wheat stocks forecast to decline

With an anticipated 10% decline in production, and consumption expected to increase, wheat stocks in the UK in the 2023/24 marketing year are forecast to decrease, according to a report from Agriculture and Horticulture (AHDB). Total wheat availability is forecast at 17,3 million tonnes, down 1,3 million tonnes from 2022/23. Production for 2023/24 is seen at 14 million tonnes, almost 1,5 million tonnes lower than the previous year.

The UK-based agency sees wheat consumption rising in both the human and industrial (5%) and animal feed (up 3%) sectors. Consumption is projected to increase by 534 000 tonnes over 2022/23 levels, rising to 15,1 million tonnes.

The report noted that barley stocks are expected to increase even though production is forecast to fall by 5%. This is partially due to a 3% decline in animal feed consumption, the AHDB said. Barley stocks in 2023/24 are projected at 8,3 million tonnes, around 101 000 tonnes lower than the previous season, the AHDB said. Production is seen declining 404 000 tonnes year-on-year to 6,9 million tonnes. – World-grain.com

Published: 03/11/2023

The importance of the the Maize and Wheat Forums

Dr John Purchase, former CEO of Agbiz, sheds some light on the aim and current role of the Maize and Wheat Forums.
Click here to listen to the interview.

Published: 19/10/2023

Storage sector has lost millions

The storage sector has lost R267 million over a period of six years. Agbiz Grain has initiated research projects for funding that will focus on genetics on the one hand, and the history of downgrading over the past 15 years on the other. The two projects are complementary.
The storage sector needs to understand the future storage requirements of barley in order to limit risk and improve the sustainability and competitiveness of barley storage. The research will support the ongoing development of the malting barley storage protocol by Agbiz Grain and a review of the current malting barley grading regulations. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 02/08/2023

Research results for sampling device expected

The dispute protocol was finalised in 2022 and is available on the Agbiz Grain website at www.agbizgrain.co.za. The sampling section cannot be finalised until the South African Grain Laboratory’s (SAGL) research into the three sampling devices has been completed.
Based on the results, Agbiz Grain will make a recommendation as to which device is suitable for dispute resolution and which one complies with the ICC standard. The results of SAGL’s research are expected shortly. Agbiz Grain has made a significant investment to facilitate the research in the interest of the entire value chain. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 02/08/2023

Large global grain supplies expected

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently released its monthly flagship report, World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates. The report’s focus has shifted from the 2022/23 season to the 2023/24 season.
The 2023/24 global wheat production is forecast at 797 million tons, up 1% from the previous season. The larger harvest is anticipated in the European Union (EU) region, the US, Canada, China, India and Turkey. As a result of the expected large harvest, the 2023/24 season’s global maize stocks could increase by 1% year-on-year to 270 million tons. Moreover, the USDA forecasts 2023/24 global maize production at 1,2 billion tons, up 6% from the previous season.
The countries underpinning this improvement in production are the US, Brazil, Argentina, China and the EU region. Regarding South America, the El Niño weather event will present much-needed change of a prolonged four years of below-average rain during a La Niña event. The ending stocks could also increase by 6% to 314 million tons in the 2023/24 season because of the expected robust harvest. – Wandile Sihlobo, Agbiz

Published: 02/08/2023

Wheat Indaba in the works

The wheat industry held its last indaba almost ten years ago. The need for a repeat of this event has arisen as the geopolitical and business environment has changed significantly since then. The planned indaba will possibly take place in October and will focus on the current role and structures in the industry, as well as the needs of the sector. Watch the press for more details. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 02/08/2023

Decision on revised maize grading regulations awaited

Industry stakeholders have until 21 August 2023 to submit their respective comments to the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) regarding the proposed grading regulations. Inputs were also received from the Agbiz Grain Quality Committee and grading experts.

Following final approval by the Agbiz Grain Steering Committee, the organisations’ comments were submitted to the DALRRD. Stakeholders are awaiting the department’s decision on the proposed revised grading

regulations submitted by Grain SA and the South African Grain Farmers’ Association (SAGRA). – Agbiz Grain

Published: 02/08/2023

Continued push for generic passport system

Stakeholders convened on 28 July to discuss the possible introduction of a generic passport system. They presented their respective systems in operation and explained the information collected in the value chain and how it is captured from production to final delivery to the processor.
Certain stakeholders are increasingly demanding compliance assurances. Providing assurances will add benefits and costs to the chain. The feasibility of a generic passport system that is applicable to every stakeholder in the value chain, depends on the inclusive cooperation of all stakeholders and compliance with the principles of the competition act as part of a voluntary system. A generic passport system should be based on the same principles as an existing passport system where the inclusive cooperation of all stakeholders involved is contracted.
Being part of a generic passport system is not mandatory but voluntary, which increases the risk of failure. Traceability and compliance in the bulk grain value chain will be discussed at the Agbiz Grain Symposium in September. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 02/08/2023

Senwes announces financial results

The Senwes Group recently announced its financial results for 2022/23. With a turnover of R13 632 million (growth of 25,3%), a profit after tax attributable to shareholders of the company of R907 million (growth of 50,9%), and normalised headline earnings of 558,1 cents per share (growth of 40,2%), all stakeholders should be smiling despite the current challenges within the agricultural sector.
“It is important to note that the figures we are presenting relate to the financial year from 1 May 2022 to 30 April 2023. These figures include the harvest delivered in 2022 and the input costs incurred for the next harvest, which will only reflect in our 2023/24 figures,” said Francois Strydom, CEO of the Senwes Group. “When comparing the latest results to the previous year’s, we are grateful for a second consecutive good year.”
Strydom explained that the higher profits can be attributed to several reasons. “The Senwes Group has expanded significantly. Therefore, the higher figures don’t only come from the same customer base, but from more customers and more businesses. Although this is the second year that Suidwes’ figures have been included for a full year, the actual impact of the operational benefits is now at a much higher level. Falcon and KLK also delivered good results. Another important point is that the figures include ten months of our new John Deere dealerships in Germany. It remains crucial for us to allocate capital effectively.”
Strydom mentioned that maize that is not graded as WM1 usually represents around 6% of the harvest but has increased to approximately 35% in the past financial year. “This is due to the exceptionally high rainfall in the previous season, resulting in waterlogged fields. Despite the lower quality, producers were still able to deliver high volumes, and a beneficial maize price worked in their favour. The significant increase in input costs for all crops during the past financial year is also notable. A good wheat harvest also contributed to these financial results.”
The Senwes Group announced a final dividend of 40 cents per share and a special dividend of 56 cents per share. – Press release, Senwes

Published: 02/08/2023

Listen to banks when formulating government policy

The government recently published two controversial regulations in the Government Gazette for public comment. One is the Water Use Licensing Regulations, which seek to introduce a black shareholding requirement to obtain a licence, and the other is the draft Equal Employment Targets proposed for the agricultural sector. (Read articles on both these regulations in this issue of Agbiz Grain Quarterly.)
Agbiz is involved in both processes by interacting with the relevant departments. Since the proposals were formally published in the Government Gazette, they have received a strong response from many civil society organisations and the media.
Agbiz Grain believes that banking, as it is practised in South Africa, enables the creation of a more just, peaceful and equal world. If banks can gain greater recognition for the role they play in determining where capital and liquidity can best be allocated in the agricultural industry to promote economic growth, then the banking industry should not be treated as a passive participant in the creation of national policy. Our banks have the ability to determine the functioning of our modern agricultural practices and way of life. With the necessary confidence in our banking system, our democracy can stand stronger. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 02/08/2023

Rice crisis: Export ban causes panic

India’s move to ban certain rice exports has sparked some panic buying in various countries, with videos on social media showing bags of the staple food flying off the shelves and long lines outside grocery stores.
The ban comes after India’s government earlier expressed concern over inflation ahead of its upcoming elections. According to Wandile Sihlobo of Agbiz, the problem with this view is that India faces far less inflation pressure than other regions. In June 2023, the country’s annual consumer inflation was 4,8%, down significantly from the start of the year when inflation was 6,5% in January 2023. Food inflation has moderated at roughly the same pace, measured at 4,5% in June 2023, down from 5,9% in January.
Importantly, India is a significant global rice producer, accounting for a 26% share in the expected 2023/24 global rice production of 525 million tons, according to data from the International Grains Council (IGC). Of the 50 million tons of rice for global exports projected for the 2023/24 season, India is expected to account for approximately 40%. Other notable rice exporters are Pakistan, Thailand, the US, Vietnam, China, Cambodia and Myanmar. However, India remains the largest exporter. The ban can there lead to major disruptions in the global rice trade and upside pressure on prices.
At the end of June 2023, global rice prices softened from the surge in May as global production prospects improved. This was a positive decline for an already declining global agricultural commodities basket from the peak levels seen after Russia invaded Ukraine in March 2022. – Wandile Sihlobo, Agbiz

Published: 02/08/2023

Dr Pieter Taljaard is stepping down

Grain SA recently announced the resignation of Dr Pieter Taljaard as CEO of the organisation. Taljaard is headed for Canada where he will be managing a vertically integrated grain and oilseed farm on the eastern border of Saskatchewan.
“It’s been a hard and sad decision, but at this stage of my career it is the last opportunity given my age to go on an adventure like this. Especially also given that we can experience this as a family together with our two teenage children,” Taljaard wrote on Grain SA’s website.
A committee was appointed by Grain SA’s board to search for the best candidate to take over the role of CEO. “Grain SA has talented and exceptionally committed personnel and I’m confident that we will manage this transition and continue to serve our members at the same level of professionalism and care we have all become accustomed to.” – Susan Marais, Plaas Media

Published: 02/08/2023

Eight killed, 11 injured in Brazil grain silo explosions

At least eight people were killed and 11 others injured in southern Brazil when a grain silo exploded at the C Vale cooperative in Palotina, a city about 600km west of the Parana state capital Curitiba. Parana is one of Brazil’s top grain-producing states.
C Vale, a major producer of soya beans, wheat and maize that stores grain in 125 units across five Brazilian states and in Paraguay, confirmed in a statement that a “large-scale accident hit our central grain reception unit in Palotina”. The company said the cause was “yet to be determined”.

Published: 02/08/2023

Opportunity: Service provider required

Agbiz Grain requires the services of an entity that will be able to provide the following outputs on a contractual basis.

Published: 04/05/2023

How to become a skills development provider

The Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) is responsible for quality assuring all occupational qualifications registered on the Occupational Qualifications Sub-Framework (OQSF). This guide is designed to help you on your journey to becoming a skills development provider (SDP) who can successfully run quality occupational learning programmes.

All information contained in this guide is based on the QCTO policies that can be accessed at www.qcto.org.za under the ‘Resources’ tab. It is recommended that you find the latest versions of the policies on the website and keep them nearby as a reference.

View the complete document here: https://www.qcto.org.za/assets/qcto_the-road-to-success.pdf

Published: 04/05/2023

Soya bean crop quality report

The final commercial crop figure of the 2021/22 season, as overseen by the National Crop Estimates Liaison Committee (CELC), is 2 230 000 tons. This unprecedented record crop represents an almost 18% increase year-on-year. The major soya bean producing provinces, namely the Free State and Mpumalanga, contributed 73% of the total crop.

This is the eleventh annual soya bean crop quality survey performed by The Southern African Grain Laboratory (SAGL) NPC.

A total of 81% (121) of the 150 samples analysed for the purpose of this survey were graded as Grade SB1, while 29 (19%) of the samples were downgraded to COSB (class other soya beans). During the previous two seasons, 20% (2020/21) and 27% (2019/20) of the samples were downgraded to COSB. The percentage samples containing sclerotia from the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum was equal to that of the previous season, namely 43%.

View the full report here: https://sagl.co.za/wp-content/uploads/Soya-Crop-Quality-Report-2021-2022-website.pdf

Published: 04/05/2023

SHEQ Forum workshops in 2023

The Agbiz SHEQ (safety, health, environmental and quality) Forum was established in 2022 by Agbiz Grain in a bid to keep Agbiz members up to date with various trends, legislation and good practices through quarterly workshops.

The theme of the first workshop was “Fire risk and the prevention of fire in the workplace” and was presented by Liebrecht Swanepoel and Ben Badenhorst. The Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases

Act, 1993 (Act 130 of 1993) will be addressed in the second quarter and the workshop will unpack practical aspects of injury on duty and occupational diseases. This workshop will lay the foundation for the third- and fourth quarter workshops.

The third-quarter workshop will address ‘medical surveillance and occupational health’ whereas ‘occupational hygiene surveying’ will be the theme in the last quarter. The latter will be presented by a qualified expert in occupational hygiene. Both medical surveillance and occupational hygiene surveying play a critical role in managing occupational injuries and diseases. – Gerard Ramage, SHEQ manager, VKB Group

Published: 04/05/2023

Grain inspection implementation plan

Industry associations and stakeholders in the grain and oilseed value chain prepared a statement of principles for grain inspections in 2022. The Statement of Principles was provided to the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) in June 2022. This statement is non-binding and does not supplant or replace the administrative process for the determination of Leaf’s methodology and fees.

On 6 December 2022, the DALLRRD informed stakeholders in the grain industry that Leaf Services appointed the University of Pretoria’s STATOMET division to establish a statistical basis for inspection frequency. The outcome of the study will form the basis for determining the proposed methodology and inspection fees. Leaf Services intended to commence with the inspection of grain and grain products during August 2023.

By April 2023, Leaf Services informed the DALRRD and the industry that the study was more complex than anticipated. Leaf Services now have a sense of changes required to the methodology and are updating the financial model accordingly. The changes to the financial model are significant. Leaf Services met with the DALRRD to discuss the STATOMET report.

Preliminary indications are that the Leaf Services will focus on the improvement of industry compliance. Furthermore, it is determined that cost optimisation is possible and fair. According to Mauritz de Kock of

Leaf Services, this will make current self-regulation visible as low-risk role-players will receive minimum inspections and higher risk score role-players will be frequently inspected. The proposed methodology will allow higher-risk role-players to move to low risk as compliance improves. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 04/05/2023

Researching suitable sampling apparatus

The Agbiz Grain technical committee on sampling met in April, during which they discussed the selection approval and certification of sampling apparatus suitable for use during disputes.

Certification of sampling apparatus requires stating manufacturing specifications. Sampling devices are being independently evaluated by the SAGL to select the appropriate apparatus from a performance and engineering point of view. Specifications must be confirmed by an engineering specialist to ensure fail-proof long-term efficiency.

Manufacturing requirements include width and length of apertures, the intermediate width between apertures, the type and thickness of the steel used in the twin bore samplers, and the strength of the sampler. The scientifically selected apparatus will be included as the prescribed, certified instrument specified in sampling and dispute protocol. To evaluate the different samplers, a handling procedure must be finalised by grading specialists.

It is foreseen that the research may lead to the recommendation of a unique sampler for use in South Africa. The International Association for Cereal Science and Technology standard prescribes that the fundamental sample tool aperture size be a minimum of three times the size of the largest sampled particle.

Our maize kernel size tends to be bigger than kernels in the northern hemisphere. The sampler should be available in varying lengths but must have sufficient length to reach the bottom of the sampled conveyance. Open-throat sampling probes tend to draw more of the sample from the top portion of the grain in the lot compared to the compartmented probe. There are open-throat probes that when inserted into the cereal grain and opened, the apertures open in sequence, starting at the bottom, taking representative samples in compliance with global standards.

In the end, the ideal sampler needs to be practical. It must draw a representative sample and manufacturing components must be affordable and available. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 04/05/2023

Bühler reports good performance

According to latest Bühler Annual Report, 2022 was a good year with progress in many areas. Good performance was achieved against the backdrop of a tense economic environment resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic and amplified by wars, especially the one in Ukraine.

At the group level, order intake rose 8,7% and amounted to CHF 3,3 billion and the order book was very high at CHF 2,1 billion. Turnover increased by 10,3% to CHF 3 billion. EBIT improved by 36% to CHF 199 million, reflecting an EBIT margin of 6,7% (prior year: 5,4%). Net profit strongly improved by 35,7% to CHF 154 million (prior year: CHF 113 million). The growth in volume came mainly from the advanced materials business, where order intake soared by 40,6% to CHF 871 million, nearly doubling its volume of the last two years.

The Bühler Annual Report can be accessed at the following link: https://www.buhlergroup.com/content/buhlergroup/global/annual_report1/annual_report_2022/economy/ group-report.html

Published: 04/05/2023

BFAP launches malting barley study

The South African Winter Grain Industry Trust (SAWCIT) has commissioned BFAP to conduct an independent in-depth analysis on the local barley value chain. The study’s aim is to assess and quantify risks associated with production, storage, handling, transport and processing of malting barley.

It aims to work with all industry players to identify practical, implementational mitigation measures that will ensure long-term sustainability and commercial viability. The research requires industry buy-in to a collaborative approach of data sharing while maintaining data confidentiality and sensitivity.

BFAP will engage with stakeholders to access and analyse available data across each node of the value chain. The goal will be to determine the common traits, trends and practices that independently or collectively influence quality and increase the risk of barley not meeting malting grade requirements.

The results will help establish why barley is being downgraded to feed grade with the associated reduction in price. The data driven insights of the key factors resulting in barley being downgraded will be instrumental in developing mitigation strategies and best practices across the industry. – BFAP

Published: 04/05/2023

Storage requirements of malting barley

The malting barley storage sector is concerned about increased risks associated with storage. Anecdotal evidence suggests that malters’ and breweries’ storage requirements for storing malting barley grain are changing over time.

Consumer standards for beer in South Africa may be different from other global consumers. This may require malting barley grain at a quality level that demands a higher degree of specifications for handling and storage. “Handling and storage conditions (drying, aeration, temperature control and pest-free practices) are the number one evidence that malt barley and seed (other crops) will survive over time,” said Rens van der Watt of the South African Barley Breeding Institute (SABBI).

Stakeholders in the beer value chain continuously search for solutions to optimise returns and lower costs. However, little is known about the performance of malting barley grain in storage in South Africa. There is a void in research that addresses the changing storage requirements of malting barley grain and the impact this may have on the value chain.

Agbiz Grain therefore focusses on promoting research and creating awareness to fill this research void among storage operators, stakeholders involved in the value chain and researchers. They will support the public and private funding for results-driven research. Agbiz Grain facilitated an inclusive industry-wide meeting on 17 April to prioritise important research needs. – Agbiz Grain

Published: 04/05/2023

EU rejects Ukraine grain bans

The European Commission has rejected bans introduced by Poland and Hungary on Ukrainian grain imports. The countries said the measures were necessary to protect their farming sectors from cheap imports. The ban applies to grains, dairy products, sugar, fruit, vegetables and meat and will be enforced until the end of June.

While the Commission said that unilateral moves will not be tolerated, it has not yet specified what measures it would take against Poland and Hungary.

Most Ukrainian grain is exported via the Black Sea, but Russia’s invasion last year disrupted export routes. As a result, large quantities of grain ended up in central Europe. A deal with Russia, brokered by the United Nations (UN) and Turkey, allows Ukraine to continue exporting by sea, but Ukraine accuses Russia of slowing the process down with overzealous inspections.

Poland called for talks with Ukraine to ensure exports pass through Poland and do not end up on the local market. Ukraine says the move contradicts bilateral trade agreements. – BBC

Published: 04/05/2023

Agbiz Grain to introduce injury frequency rates

Within the safety, health, environmental and quality (SHEQ) environment, performance is mainly measured in injury frequency rates. These rates tell how frequently an injury occurs for a certain number of hours worked.

Agbiz Grain intends to establish injury frequency rates for the grain handling and storage sector in 2023. This includes the total injury frequency rate (the rate at which all injuries occur), and the lost time injury frequency rate (the rate calculated for the number of hours lost due to employees being booked off work due to injuries that occurred).

The storage sector can subsequently measure whether it is efficient in exercising SHEQ practices or not, but doing so within the agricultural environment. Currently, the sector has to benchmark itself against the

manufacturing industry, but inflexible requirements to comply with that may not apply to the storage sector.

Published: 06/02/2023

Associate members highlight issues of concern

The associate membership category includes value chain stakeholders that render services or products directly to the handling and storage sector. Associated members do not only pay a membership fee, but also share information and make suggestions on how to improve certain aspects of the grain handling and storage sector business environment. During the end-of-year meetings with our associate members, the following was suggested for consideration in 2023:

Santam Agri:

Global underwriters’ latest requirements and outlook for risk sharing (insurance) in the handling and storage of grain. Impact of load shedding on insurance premiums and claims due to damage to equipment.
Auditing of the grain handling and storage sector by an independent third party demonstrating legal and regulatory compliance. This will highlight noncompliance by (other) stakeholders involved in commercial storage and limit uncompetitive opportunistic practices.
With the impending carbon tax looming over the agricultural industry, it could be a great opportunity for the storage sector to either sell carbon credits to existing taxpayers (such as Afrimat) or to build up a bank and absorb these credits in an attempt to reduce carbon tax liabilities in future. A couple of projects qualify for carbon credits. The link showcases carbon credit projects that Nedbank South Africa supports by buying carbon credits in an attempt to lower the bank’s carbon footprint.
Insurers such as Santam Agri see value in investigating the possible implications of the sustainable development goal benchmarks relating to the grain handling and storage value chain, in collaboration with Agbiz Grain.

Henchem:

The company has already signed up and successfully guided 24 fumigation companies through the Profume stewardship process during the past 24 months and will present the product to our steering committee members before the next steering committee meeting in February this year. The new Profume fumigant’s implementation in South Africa has increased drastically during 2022.
Henchem completed stewardship training for more than 24 companies last year (37 in total). More than 20 000 000 tons of maize, wheat, rice, dried fruit, legumes and various other commodities have been successfully fumigated since. This includes shortterm road and rail cart fumigation (as low as 12 hours) as well as long-term (seven-day) fumigations. Various trials have been completed or is in process with customers such as Senwes, OVK, Kaap Agri Pride Milling, and raisin and dry fruit producers. Henchem will make a technical presentation focussing on the scientific data from Profume jobs to the Agbiz Grain steering committee members before the next steering committee meeting.

AE Solutions:

AE Solutions shared their view on the expansion of their client base involved in on-farm and commercial storage operations. In principle, all commercial storage operators must be members of Agbiz Grain, be FBO registered, and comply with regulations in a tough competitive storage business environment. Agbiz Grain members handle and store around 70% of the grain and oilseeds delivered to storage structures in South Africa, rendering Agbiz Grain a powerful mouthpiece for the sector. If you are a commercial storage operator and not a member of Agbiz Grain, do consider signing up.

Published: 06/02/2023

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