SA Groundnut Forum (SAGF)
Meeting held at the PRF Office building and also via a virtual platform (MS Teams) on Tuesday 16 July 2025 at 10:00

1. Opening

   The meeting was opened with prayer by Mr L de Kock.

2. Welcome

   The Chairperson welcomed all the attendees to the SA Groundnut Forum meeting and invited them to participate in the discussions.

   The Chairperson mentioned the passing of Dr S van Wyk on 24 June 2025, and expressed condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

3. Attendance

   Present
   Ms A Botha	Chairperson
   Dr ZA Bello	ARC-GC
   Dr E Briedenhann	OAC
   Dr J du Toit	ARC-GC
   Mr S Hennig	ARC-GC
   Mr G Keun	Chief Executive Officer
   Mr B Schultz	SAGIS
   Ms M Scheepers	NDA
   Dr S Steenkamp	ARC-GC
   Ms J Tselentis	SANCU / OPDT
   Ms M Du Preez	OPDT
   Via MS Teams
   Mr T Clark	RCL Foods
   Mr GL de Kock	Roba Foods
   Mr M Beukes	VGM
   Mr D Boltman	Lorenz SA (Pty) Ltd
   Mr H Engelbrecht	PPECB
   Mr M Fache	NDA
   Mr M J. van Rensburg	Dept of Agriculture, Mpumalanga
   Mr C Kenny	RCL Foods
   Mr H Lazarus	LB Nuts
   Mr C Louw	Grain SA
   Ms C Makobe	NDA
   Mr V Mapfumari	NDA
   Mr E Maree	RE Groundnuts
   Ms D Mosehla	OPDT
   Ms M Moloko	NDA
   Dr D Naicker	SGS
   Mr W Nel	Rand Agri
   Mr C Nortje	GWK
   Mr C Ogden	SGS
   Prof PA Swanepoel	RPC and Stellenbosch University
   Ms S van Aard	Grain SA
   Ms L van Blommestein	RCL Foods
   Mr K van Huysteen	SANSOR
   Ms K Uys	MXNS
   Mr A Visser	SA Peanut
   Ms M Visser	MXNS
   Apologies
   Dr W Snijman	ARC-GC
   Ms R Beukes	NDA
   Ms W Haasbroek	SGS
   Ms L Mazibuko	Tiger Brands
   Mr N Wegner	PPECB

4. Governance/Personalia

   The Chairperson reminded the forum members to consider the terms and rules of the Competition Commission, noting that the forum’s Terms of Reference would apply throughout the meeting.

5. Confirmation of agenda

   The agenda was accepted as it stood.

6. Approval of minutes

   1. Approval of the minutes of the meeting of the SA Groundnut Forum held on 19 February 2025

      The minutes of the SA Groundnut Forum meeting held on 19 February 2025 were accepted and referred for publication on the OPDT/OAC webpage.

      Resolution:

      1. That the minutes of the meeting of the SA Groundnut Forum held on 19 February 2025, be approved and referred to the OPDT/OAC webpage for publication.

7. Matters for discussion

   1. Research and Technology Transfer

      1. ARC Breeding Programme

         1. Cultivar Brochure

            (Resolutions 7.1.1.1.1 and 7.1.1.1.2 on the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

            The Chairperson mentioned that the first draft of the brochure/manual of registered groundnut cultivars was available and published on the OPDT/OAC website.

            After a detailed discussion, it was decided that the webpage link be circulated to the forum members for information.

            The Chairperson thanked the members who assisted with the project and success achieved.

            Resolution:

            1. That the webpage link (https://www.opot.co.za/) of the first draft of the brochure/manual of registered groundnut cultivars that was published on the OPDT/OAC website, be circulated to the forum members.

               Chairperson
               Ms Du Preez
               SAGF

         2. ARC Production Manual, Dr W Snijman

            (Resolutions 7.1.1.2.1 and 7.1.1.2.2 on the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

            Dr Steenkamp confirmed that the English version of the production manual was in the final stages of editing and would be available soon.

            Resolution:

            1. That it be noted that the English version of the ARC Groundnut Production Manual would be available soon.

               Dr Snijman
               Chairperson
               SAGF

         3. ARC Groundnut Breeder, Dr K Mashingaidze

            The Chairperson mentioned that this matter could be removed from the agenda until more information becomes available.

      2. Industry Collaboration - ARC Cultivar Development, Evaluation, Maintenance and Seed Multiplication

         1. 2024/25 ARC Trials, Dr W Snijman and Ms M van der Merwe

            (Resolution 7.1.2.2.1 - 7.1.2.1.3 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

            The Chairperson stated that the trials at the ARC for development, evaluation, maintenance, and seed multiplication, led by Dr Snijman and Mrs Van der Merwe, were ongoing. Currently, the trial data was being processed by both the industry and the ARC.

            The Chairperson mentioned that the value-chain meeting was scheduled for Thursday, 24 July 2025 and Friday, 25 July 2025 and that the discussions would focus on the role-players involved in the cultivar trials. During this meeting, the aim would be to clarify the available information, how it would be processed, and when it would be ready. The Chairperson also reported that the ARC was invited to arrange a roundtable discussion if needed; however, the cultivar meetings were usually scheduled for September.

            The Chairperson said that the industry trials overseen by Mr De Kock would also be discussed during the upcoming meetings, as mentioned above.

            Resolutions:

            1. That it be noted that a value-chain meeting was scheduled for 24 and 25 July 2025, and the discussions would focus on the role-players involved in the cultivar trials.

               Chairperson
               SAGF

            2. That it be noted that the ARC was invited to arrange a roundtable discussion if needed, however, the cultivar meetings were usually scheduled for September 2025.

               Chairperson
               Dr Snijman
               SAGF

         2. 2024/25 Industry Trials, Mr L de Kock

            Mr De Kock reported that they were currently in the process of grading. He said the trials were conducted at five different locations, testing a total of 20 cultivars and lines from both ICRISAT and the ARC. From the ARC, six older cultivars and two new lines were included, whilst from ICRISAT, 13 lines, of which nine were tested for three years, and four new lines that were tested for the first time this current season. The results would be available at the next meeting of the Groundnut Forum, allowing for a clearer understanding of the way forward with these lines.

            Resolution:

            1. That the results of the industry trials would be reviewed after harvesting, and that the final decisions regarding specific cultivars in the industry trials could be made during the next meeting of the Groundnut forum scheduled for October 2025.

               Chairperson
               SAGF

         3. ARC Open Day, Dr K Mashingaidze and Dr W Snijman

            (Resolution 7.1.2.4a of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

            The Chairperson mentioned that the ARC did not schedule an open day during the current season and that the industry would be notified in advance if an open day was planned for the following season.

            Resolution:

            1. That the industry be notified well in advance if an open day was planned during the following season (2025/26) by the ARC.

               Chairperson
               SAGF

      3. Research Projects

         1. Consumer & Product Research

            (Resolution 7.1.3.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

            Mr Keun reported that the final report of Dr Muller’s research project, “A Scoping Study of the Consumer Market and Exploring Peanuts as a Diverse Food Product in Mid and Lower Income Groups”, was received and was awaiting final approval by the Oilseeds Advisory Committee. Mr Keun also reported that Dr Muller would be invited to present the results of the mentioned research project at the next Groundnut Forum meeting scheduled for October 2025.

            Resolution:

            1. That Dr Muller be invited to present the results of the research project “A Scoping Study of the Consumer Market and Exploring Peanuts as a Diverse Food Product in Mid and Lower Income Groups” at the next Groundnut Forum meeting scheduled for October 2025.

               Chairperson
               Mr Keun
               SAGF

         2. School Nutrition Program

            (Resolution 7.1.3.1.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

            Mr Keun mentioned that he was experiencing some difficulty arranging a discussion with the Department of Education to address certain specifications and procurement needs. He asked that the matter be held in abeyance.

            Resolution:

            1. That the discussion with the Department of Education to confirm the inclusion and use of peanut butter in the school nutrition program, be held in abeyance.

               Chairperson
               Mr Keun
               SAGF

         3. Industry Priorities for 2025 – a call for input and identification of key objects

            The Chairperson reported that a generic marketing strategy needs to be discussed to share news and stories in the public domain effectively. She invited the forum members to share additional ideas.

            The upcoming value-chain meeting, scheduled for the end of July, would be crucial for identifying key issues and potential projects. The Chairperson stated that any findings would be communicated to the industry as needed, and a report would be provided to the Groundnut Forum meeting scheduled for October 2025.

            The Groundnut Value Chain aims to focus on existing agenda items and develop a project plan to address such. The Chairperson mentioned that any support from Groundnut Forum members before the meeting scheduled for 24 and 25 July 2025 would be appreciated. Following the meeting, an update would be shared on how to involve the larger industry.

            Resolution:

            1. That the Chairperson would communicate any findings to the industry as needed, and a report would be provided to the Groundnut Forum meeting scheduled for October 2025.

               Chairperson
               Mr Keun
               SAGF

      4. Generic Marketing of Groundnuts

         1. Grow for Gold Competition

            (Resolution 7.1.4.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

            The Chairperson reported that the Grow for Gold Competition would be discussed further at the Value Chain meeting scheduled for 24 and 25 July 2025, with the relevant role-players. Groundnut production differs significantly from other commodities, and strategies that work for larger commodities do not apply to groundnuts, primarily because of the limited involvement of major seed companies.

            The Value Chain needs to address these differences and decide who would oversee the project, rather than relying solely on seed companies.

            The Chairperson mentioned that Grain SA's support was appreciated and that the Value Chain aims to propose a solution during the mentioned meeting at the end of July for implementation during the following season. The industry’s focus would be on conducting trials to identify cultivars that deliver better outcomes for farmers. While testing new cultivars, the industry would also refine its approach, making the Grow for Gold competition vital to the industry’s efforts.

            Mr Louw mentioned that the seed companies and processors would be discussed from the Grain SA side as part of their goals for the Grow for Gold Competition entries. This collaboration was essential for the competition's success. The discussion with the seed companies would include clarifying the process, plot requirements, and whether processors or seed companies would provide assistance to producers. Mr Louw reported further that these requirements could contribute to the success of the Grow for Gold groundnut program.

            Resolution:

            1. That feedback on the Groundnut Industry's involvement in the Grow for Gold Competition would be reported at the next Groundnut Forum meeting, scheduled for October 2025.

               Chairperson
               Mr Keun
               SAGF

         2. Social Media

            The forum took note of the article from Robin Hood Ministries that was attached as Annexure B to the agenda.

            The Chairperson reported that she supplied the administration with some general information for social media purposes. The Chairperson encouraged the forum members to share and like the OPDT/OAC Facebook page.

            Resolution:

            1. That the forum members were requested to share and like the OPDT/OAC Facebook page.

               Chairperson
               SAGF

   2. Tariffs and Levies

      1. Import Tariffs

         (Resolutions 7.2.1.1 and 7.2.1.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

         The Chairperson provided feedback on applications for the import tariffs for roasted peanuts and peanut butter. As previously discussed, ITAC was informed that the industry decided not to pursue a new tariff application for roasted groundnuts. The Groundnut Industry preferred to wait for the outcome of the peanut butter tariff application to avoid complicating matters with an additional application, which could lead to delays. The Chairperson mentioned that ITAC made progress with the application and further information was awaited.

         Mr Kenny reported that ITAC was finalising the public participation process and inviting everyone to submit comments. A major retailer, represented by their attorney and an economist, made public submissions that challenge certain aspects of the application. RCL would, in return, respond through their attorneys and engage with ITAC regarding the said issue.

         Additionally, Mr Kenny mentioned that ITAC's recommendations were expected to be submitted to the minister by the end of August.

         The Chairperson thanked Mr Kenny and RCL for their contribution and support regarding the Import Tariff applications to ITAC.

         Any feedback and information related to the import tariff application would be communicated to all members of the forum.

         Resolution:

         1. That any feedback and information related to the import tariff applications would be communicated to all members of the forum.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun
            SAGF

      2. Japan Import Tariffs

         (Resolutions 7.2.2.1 - 7.2.2.3 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

         The Chairperson noted that Japan's import tariffs on South African products were a longstanding issue, as it was less favourable than those applied to countries like the USA. The industry identified a need to explore ways to reduce the import tariffs on groundnuts exported from South Africa to Japan. Previous attempts to gain support from the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) were not successful. However, the Japan import tariffs would remain on the agenda for future discussions and action plans.

         The Chairperson committed to sending another urgent request for a meeting with the department.

         Mr Louw mentioned that the visit from the Japanese delegation was only interested in Yellow Maize and that it was challenging to divert their attention to something else.

         Mr Louw suggested that the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition should be used to follow up on the import tariff for South African groundnuts.

         Any feedback and updates regarding Japan's import tariffs would be communicated to all forum members.

         Resolutions:

         1. That the Japan import tariffs would remain on the agenda for future discussions and action plans.

            Chairperson
            Mr Louw
            Mr Keun

         2. That feedback regarding the Japan import tariff would be communicated to the forum members.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun
            SAGF

      3. VAT Exemption Submission

         (Resolution 7.2.3.1 and 7.2.3.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

         Mr Keun mentioned that he received guidelines concerning the submission process for VAT Exemption applications. He stated that this would be the route to follow for the Soy Food Forum. Mr Keun offered to send the guidelines to the Chairperson in order for a submission to be prepared on behalf of the peanut butter industry. He also reported that the government no longer opens a window for VAT Exemption submissions as it did before, instead, there were announcements and expressions of intent, rather than official requests for industries to submit their applications.

         Any feedback and updates regarding the VAT Exemption submission on peanut butter would be communicated to all members of the forum.

         Resolutions:

         1. That Mr Keun be requested to forward the guidelines regarding the submission process for VAT Exemption applications to the Chairperson.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun

         2. That feedback and updates regarding the VAT Exemption submission on peanut butter be communicated to all members of the forum.

            Chairperson
            Mr Louw
            Mr Keun

   3. Industry Standards and Regulatory Matters

      1. Crop Protection

         1. Phasing-out of certain active ingredients

            (Resolutions 7.3.1.2.1 – 7.3.1.2.3 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

            The Chairperson mentioned that she lacks the expertise to expand on the phasing out of certain active ingredients, but she would reach out to the Groundnut forum members for their expertise. The Groundnut Industry should review the list provided in Annexure C to the agenda and submit comments where applicable. The Chairperson stated that the priority now was to discuss and organise a roundtable meeting with Dr Steenkamp and GrainSA in early August. During said meeting, it would be necessary to identify critical issues, what the industry would lose and what needs to be replaced. The industry should consider how to encourage support based on the research available.

            The Chairperson mentioned that the matter would also be discussed at the Value Chain meeting scheduled for 24 and 25 July 2025, as role-players would likely be supportive of the industry moving forward.

            Dr Steenkamp mentioned that the chemical companies would also be invited to the early August meeting.

            Resolutions:

            1. That the Groundnut Industry would scrutinise the lists provided by CropLife to ensure that the products essential for Groundnut production were defended.

               Chairperson
               Mr Keun
               SAGF

            2. That a discussion with Dr Steenkamp would be arranged to organise a roundtable discussion with the chemical companies regarding the current situation with chemicals on Groundnuts.

               Chairperson
               SAGF

      2. Import Quality, Regulatory Control and MRL Testing

         1. Industry and Departmental Workshop/Collaboration

            (Resolutions 7.3.2.1a of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

            The Chairperson emphasised the significance of ongoing cooperation between the Department of Health, the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry. The focus of the workshop or meeting would be to discuss how regulatory requirements were monitored to protect consumers and the industry role-players.

            The Chairperson suggested enhancing the discussion by outlining key topics for a potential workshop. This would help propose the idea to the department for their involvement. It would be essential for the industry to gather and collaborate with regulators to address issues proactively, rather than waiting for a crisis to highlight gaps.

            Furthermore, the Chairperson mentioned that several concerns require attention, and the industry would consider bringing it to the attention of the regulators. This would be something worth pursuing, and the administration would be involved to assist in facilitating such a workshop.

            Resolution:

            1. That a workshop or meeting be organised with the Department of Health, the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry to discuss how regulatory requirements were monitored to protect consumers and the industry.

               Chairperson
               Mr Keun
               SAGF

      3. Local Quality Verification – Leaf Services

         (Resolutions 7.3.3.1 and 7.3.3.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

         The forum acknowledged the content of the document that was included as Annexure D in the agenda.

         It was noted that the Minister of Agriculture revoked the appointment of Leaf Services.

         The matter was considered as finalised.

   4. Industry

      1. Crop and Area Estimates

         The forum acknowledged the contents of Annexure E and Ms Scheepers' presentation on the forecast for Groundnut production. The forum was eagerly anticipating the release of the sixth production forecast for summer field crops for 2025, scheduled for publication on 29 July 2025.

         Ms Scheepers and the CEC team were once again commended for their invaluable contributions to the industry.

      2. SA Grain Information Services (SAGIS)

         The committee noted the contents of Annexure F of the agenda.

         The Forum acknowledged Mr Schultz's presentation on SAGIS, feedback, and market information with great appreciation. The Chairperson was confident that access to such critical, objective, and trustworthy information would greatly enhance discussions and decision-making processes.

      3. Aflatoxin Reports

         (Resolutions 7.4.3.1 - 7.4.3.4 of the Groundnut Frum minutes of 19/02/2025)

         The Forum took note of the contents of Annexure G of the agenda.

         The Chairperson reported that PPECB was the sole laboratory reporting on aflatoxin results for several years. This occurred after an EU visit, during which it was questioned how the industry uses the reported information. PPECB began sharing trends as the main laboratory for exports, and the industry recognised the need also to examine imports and encourage participation from other local laboratories.

         To facilitate this, the Chairperson reached out to various laboratories for two reasons: firstly, to provide the industry with updated contact information, accreditations, and testing dates, which would be compiled into a brochure; and secondly, to consolidate aflatoxin testing results across different laboratories. Although the necessary data was not received from all laboratories yet, the Chairperson invited a few laboratories to make presentations during the meeting.

         The Chairperson presented a brief overview of the progress made thus far to demonstrate that some effort was made in moving forward.

         The Chairperson requested that all presentations from the laboratories be attached to the agenda of the next meeting.

         The following laboratories made presentations:

         • Ms K Uys – Merieux NutriSciences, Western Cape
         • Mr H Engelbrecht – PPECB, Centurion
         • Mr C Ogden / Ms W Haasbroek – SGS, Centurion

         Resolution:

         1. That the presentations regarding aflatoxin results presented by the different laboratories be attached to the agenda of the next meeting.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun
            SAGF

      4. Industry Project: Parity-Based Price Model

         (Resolution 7.4.4.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 19/02/2025)

         The Forum took note of the contents of Annexure H of the agenda.

         The Chairperson mentioned that the latest Industry Project: Parity Price model document was available and published on the OPDT/OAC website.

         After discussion, it was decided that the webpage link be circulated to the forum members for information.

         Resolution:

         1. That the link (www.opot.co.za/) of the published parity-based price model on the OPDT/OAC webpage would be shared with the forum members.

            Chairperson
            Ms Du Preez
            SAGF

      5. Articles

         The forum took note of the content of the article attached as Annexure I to the agenda:

         • SA Grain Magazine: "Grondbone – van kiemplasma tot registrasie" (Dr W Snijman, ARC-GC and Ms M van der Merwe, ARC-GC)

   5. General

      None.

8. Meeting dates 2025

   The next meeting of the forum was scheduled for 21 October 2025.

9. Adjournment

   As there was no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 12:00.