3. PPECB Annual Report 2009-2010

Programme: Subtropical and Other ProductsThe 2009 avocado season reached an average export volumeof 9,7 million cartons, well below the record crop in excessof 12,5 million cartons experienced during the previous season.The lower volumes were due to unfavourable climatic conditionsand Cercospera in certain areas. Export markets howeverremained favourable throughout the season due to the higherdemand and well coordinated volumes during peak deliveryperiods. The industry also had to contend with a local marketwhich continued to absorb large quantities of avocados atfresh produce markets, retail outlets and the informal sector.Mango exports continued to decline as has been the trendfor the last few years, and litchi crops saw a 8% belowbudgeted figure; reasons which could be ascribed to increaseddemand for mangoes on the local market including theinformal sector, and due to high quantities attracted forprocessing. Lower onion and other vegetable volumes wereexported due to lower demand and prices overseas resultingfrom the global credit crunch.The groundnut sector experienced a crop of just below20 000 metric tons recorded for export during the fiscal yearwhich has been characterised by an additional effort fromthe PPECB to reduce aflatoxin risks at the point of export.Other noteworthy movements were red tea showing anupward trend.Due to the volatility of volumes, cost containment withinthis program demands a “hands on” approach duringmanagement of key activity drivers.Further highlights of the programme involve the PPECB’scontribution to the management of maturity testing onavocados as part of a SAAGA local market campaign.The 2009/10 year also saw the commencement of a producttraining service for the Johannesburg Market, the biggestfresh produce market in Africa. QC personnel and floorinspectors have been trained in at least 6 product modulesin Johannesburg Market’s endeavour to revolutionise its“market of the future” programme based on food safety andquality. The PPECB committed to capacity building programmeswith individuals acquiring a basic understanding of the principlesand requirements involved with the inspections of fresh qualityproduce commonly traded at the market. This venture is thebeginning of the first phase of capacity building of this strategicpartner with the programme destined to reach the premisesof Johannesburg Market suppliers as well as strategic allianceswithin the SADC region over time.PPECB | annual report | 2009 - 2010 51