SA Canegrowers is championing the Sugar Industry Masterplan to safeguard over a million livelihoods, while calling for increased consumption of local sugar amidst rising challenges.
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SA Canegrowers has welcomed the signing of the second phase of the Sugar Industry Masterplan, an initiative forged between the government, growers, millers, and major commercial end-users — including retailers and food and beverage manufacturers — which aims to fortify an industry that currently supports over one million livelihoods across the nation.
During an address following the signing, Higgins Mdluli, Chairman of SA Canegrowers, emphasised the critical nature of the industry amidst mounting challenges. “South Africa’s sugar industry is too important to fail. By signing the Masterplan, we are demonstrating our commitment to work alongside the government and other stakeholders to build a resilient and sustainable sugar industry,” he said. The proactive approach highlighted by Mdluli underlines the integral role that the sugar sector plays in the economic landscape of South Africa, particularly in rural areas where employment opportunities are scarce.
As the industry grapples with soaring diesel and fertiliser costs, local growers face fierce competition from heavily subsidised sugar imports. This troubling scenario has prompted SA Canegrowers to call for a “fair tariff system” that not only protects local producers but also encourages consumers to buy locally produced sugar, as clearly labelled on packaging. The emphasis on local sourcing is expected to reinforce rural development and sustain livelihoods that depend on sugar production.
Representing 1,250 large-scale growers and nearly 30,000 small-scale growers, SA Canegrowers stands unwavering in its mission to foster a proudly South African sugar industry that aims for self-sufficiency. “The second phase of the Masterplan signifies a collective commitment from all stakeholders to collaborate, diversify, and cultivate a flourishing industry that serves our communities,” Mdluli added.
The Masterplan also highlights the sugar industry’s willingness to diversify as a key strategy for long-term sustainability. SA Canegrowers has been actively exploring biofuels and sustainable aviation fuels as potential avenues for growth and innovation. However, the implementation of such initiatives hinges on creating a conducive environment for foreign direct investment (FDI) and robust government support.
As the sugar industry endeavours to adapt and thrive in a challenging economic climate, SA Canegrowers is resolute in continuing efforts towards diversification to ensure that sugar growing remains a viable and fruitful path for future generations.
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