PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA - The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) successfully hosted its fourth Southern Africa Conference on 24 July at The Capital Menlyn Maine in Pretoria, drawing a vibrant mix of growers, exporters, retailers, and global buyers from across Southern Africa.
The one-day event served as a powerful platform for dialogue, innovation, and connection across the fresh produce supply chain. Designed to address the evolving challenges and opportunities in Southern Africa, the programme spanned global market trends, export logistics, consumer behaviour, and sustainability through technology.
“The Southern Africa Conference is where global strategy meets local action,” said Jessica Keller, Vice President of Global Industry Relations at IFPA. “The energy and insight shared here in Pretoria reflect the strength of Southern Africa’s fresh produce community – and its readiness to lead on the world stage.”
Key Highlights from the 2025 Conference:
State of the Industry:
In a standout session which closed the conference, South Africa’s Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, made remarks on global trade pressures, including concerns about U.S. tariffs on South African exports and their broader economic impact. He also emphasised the critical role of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable agricultural growth in South Africa.
Global Market Insights:
Featured speakers included:
- Patrick Vizzone, Vertical Oceans/DiMuto
- Relebohile Ramosoeu, Euromonitor International
- Shubha Rawal, IG International, India
- Nico van Schalkwyk, Fruitalyst South Africa
Experts in this session explored shifting consumer preferences across North America and India – offering exporters valuable insights for navigating evolving demand.
Export Readiness and Logistics:
Featured speakers included:
- Steve Alaerts, Foodcareplus Logistics NV
- Werner van Rooyen, Fresh Produce Exporters Forum
Speakers emphasised the importance of aligning local practices with global expectations and called for renewed focus on the European Union as a strategic export market.
Tech & Innovation:
In this session, IFPA Chief Science Officer Dr. Max Teplitski highlighted emerging technologies that are helping drive operational efficiency, sustainability, and food safety throughout the supply chain.
“Our industry is evolving rapidly, and this event helps ensure we evolve together,” said Jaco Oosthuizen, CEO of RSA Group and Chairperson of the IFPA South Africa Country Council. “The conversations we had – from logistics to market access – will help shape a more connected, competitive, and resilient future for Southern African producers.”
With good participation and strong momentum, the 2025 Southern Africa Conference underscored IFPA’s ongoing role in shaping the future of the global fresh produce industry through advocacy, education, and innovation.
For more information, visit: https://www.freshproduce.com/events/the-southern-africa-conference
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International Fresh Produce Association
The International Fresh Produce Association is the largest and most diverse international association serving the entire…
