SA Groundnut Forum (SAGF)
Meeting held at the PRF Office building and also via a virtual platform (MS Teams) on Tuesday 17 February 2026 at 10:00
Opening
The meeting was opened with a prayer by Mr G Keun.
Welcome
The Chairperson welcomed all attendees to the first meeting of the SA Groundnut Forum for 2026 and encouraged their participation in the discussions.
Attendance
Present
Ms A Botha Chairperson Dr E Briedenhann OAC Mr G Burger GSA Mr W Higgs Triotrade Mr G Keun Chief Executive Officer Mr C Louw GSA Ms C Mathekga GSA Mr P Moopeloa M&L MXNS Labs Ms L Ndou Department of Agriculture Mr G Olivier GSA Mr A Sanford FRW Groundnuts Ms M Scheepers Department of Agriculture Mr B Schultz SAGIS Dr W Snijman ARC-GC Ms J Tselentis SANCU Ms C van der Rijst FRW Groundnuts Dr C van der Merwe Agbiz Grain Dr K van Huysteen SANSOR Ms M Du Preez OPDT Via MS Teams
Mr D Boltman Lorenz SA (Pty) Ltd Dr J du Toit ARC-GC Mr A Erasmus AGvantage SA Ms M Engelbrecht M&L MXNS Labs Mr H Engelbrecht PPECB Mr M Fache NDA Mr J Griessel Producer Ms W Haasbroek SGS Mr M Kgasago Department of Agriculture Mr H Lazarus LB Nuts Mr V Mapfumari Department of Agriculture Ms C Makobe Department of Agriculture Mr E Maree RE Groundnuts Ms D Mosehla OPDT Ms D Marabe Department of Agriculture Dr D Naicker SGS Mr R Nerwich Botnim Trading (Pty) Ltd Ms M Pienaar GSA Mr F Prinsloo Tiger Brands Dr S Steenkamp ARC-GC Prof P Swanepoel Stellenbosch University Ms S van Aardt GSA Ms L van Blommestein RCL Foods Mr M van der Merwe SA Peanut Mr M Verweerd AGvantage SA Mr N Wegner PPECB Mr X Wessels M&L MXNS Labs Apologies
Ms L Masibuko Tiger Brands Ms T Ramogodi PPECB Mr A Visser SA Peanut Governance/Personalia
The Chairperson reminded the Forum members to consider the Competition Commission's terms and rules, noting that the Forums Terms of Reference would apply throughout the meeting.
Confirmation of agenda
The agenda was accepted with the addition of the following discussion point:
Item 7.3.2.2 – Peanut Butter Recall: February 2026
Approval of minutes
Approval of the minutes of the meeting of the SA Groundnut Forum held on 21 October 2025
The minutes of the SA Groundnut Forum meeting held on 21 October 2025 were accepted and referred for publication on the OPDT/OAC website.
Resolution:
- That the minutes of the meeting of the SA Groundnut Forum held on 21 October 2025, be approved and referred to the OPDT/OAC website for publication.
Matters for discussion
Research and Technology Transfer
ARC Breeding Programme
Cultivar Brochure
(Resolution 7.1.1.1.1 on the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Forum took note of the publication of the second draft of the brochure/manual of registered groundnut cultivars on the OPDT/OAC webpage, accessible under Crops > Groundnuts > General Info.
The Forum conveyed a word of thanks to the Chairperson for a well-structured and useful document. The Chairperson thanked the members who assisted with the project and the success achieved so far.
The Chairperson mentioned that she was invited to present at the SANSOR Seed Certification Refresher Workshop on 25 and 26 February 2026. During her presentation, the Chairperson would enquire whether an update of the characteristics document might be considered as a possible joint project focusing on the newest cultivars.
Resolution:
- That it be noted that the second draft of the brochure/manual of registered groundnut cultivars was published on the OPDT/OAC website.
Chairperson
Ms Du Preez
SAGF
- That it be noted that the second draft of the brochure/manual of registered groundnut cultivars was published on the OPDT/OAC website.
ARC Production Manual, Dr W Snijman
(Resolutions 7.1.1.2.1 and 7.1.1.2.2 on the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
Dr Snijman mentioned that both the Afrikaans and English versions were handed to the printers and would be available soon.
Dr Snijman was asked to notify the administration once the production manuals were available to enable the administration to communicate the information to the Forum members.
Resolutions:
- That it be noted that both the Afrikaans and English versions of the ARC Groundnut Production Manuals would be available soon.
Dr Snijman
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF - That Dr Snijman be requested to inform the administration once the production manuals were available to communicate the information to the Forum members.
Dr Snijman
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That it be noted that both the Afrikaans and English versions of the ARC Groundnut Production Manuals would be available soon.
Industry Collaboration – ARC Cultivar Development, Evaluation, Maintenance and Seed Multiplication
2024/25 ARC Trials, Dr W Snijman and Ms M van der Merwe
(Resolution 7.1.2.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson noted that the 2024/25 ARC trials were thoroughly covered in the previous meeting and advised that any required information could be found in previous minutes.
The Chairperson referred to the priority list mentioned during the previous meeting and said that a letter was sent to the ARC-GC in May 2018. During that time, an industry survey was conducted on what the traits required by the industry were and what should be considered for breeding purposes.
The following characteristics were then identified:
- high percentage kernel yield, also with the choice grade section;
- the importance of nematode resistance, foliar disease resistance and drought tolerance;
- short growing periods in addition to the drought tolerance to allow for the shift in growing seasons;
- Spanish type to allow for larger, round-shaped, tan coloured kernels, as well as the characteristics of taste and flavour; and
- shell durability.
After discussion, it was decided that the above-mentioned characteristics were still efficient and that the ARC-GC would be informed accordingly.
Resolution:
- That the following characteristics were still efficient and that the ARC-GC would be informed accordingly:
- high percentage kernel yield, also with the choice grade section;
- the importance of nematode resistance, foliar disease resistance and drought tolerance;
- short growing periods in addition to the drought tolerance to allow for the shift in growing seasons;
- Spanish type to allow for larger, round-shaped, tan coloured kernels, as well as the characteristics of taste and flavour; and
- shell durability.
Chairperson
SAGF
2024/25 Industry Trials, Mr L de Kock
(Resolutions 7.1.2.2.1 and 7.1.2.2.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson requested that Dr Snijman provide a brief description of the phenotyping machine and whether it would be necessary to present information at the next Forum meeting.
Dr Snijman explained that the phenotyping machine was designed to select the best genotypes in the shortest period of time. The machine operates on a transporter railway line, moving across a field where researchers can book space to plant their genotypes or materials. As the machine travels, it's equipped with sensors that measure various parameters such as growth time, leaf size, and the duration required for the plants to reach specific developmental stages, among other data.
Dr Snijman mentioned that once the measurements were taken, the machine was connected to a computer program that transferred all the graphics and results. This data provides a clear understanding of a specific plant's performance in a very short period.
Dr Snijman offered to do a presentation on the phenotype machine if the Forum needs more information.
The Chairperson reported that an industry meeting for stakeholders regarding the industry trials was held on 24 October 2025 in Potchefstroom. During this meeting, stakeholders were provided with an overview of the trial results, and discussions were held about the way forward. The Chairperson highlighted that there were several promising cultivars and that discussions would began on the possibility of local registration.
The Chairperson mentioned that a delegation from the South African Groundnut Association (SAGA) would be visiting ICRISAT in India during March. The purpose of this visit was to strengthen collaboration and ensure alignment within the groundnut industry moving forward. The association agreed to work with local experts and the existing team to oversee and manage future trials.
The Chairperson shared that the said association allocated funds for a project at Cengen to enhance DNA testing capabilities, which would also lower costs by allowing for higher testing volumes. Cengen was collaborating with international partners to develop new SNP capabilities, and feedback would be provided as the project progressed.
Resolution:
- That feedback be communicated to the Forum members on the Cengen project as it progresses.
Chairperson
SAGF
- That feedback be communicated to the Forum members on the Cengen project as it progresses.
ARC Open Day, Dr K Mashingaidze and Dr W Snijman
(Resolution 7.1.2.3.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson mentioned that the matter could be removed from the agenda.
Research Projects
Consumer & Product Research
(Resolution 7.1.3.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
Mr Keun mentioned that the final report of the project "Exploring Peanuts as a Diverse Food Product in Mid and Lower Income Groups" was still under consideration by the OAC. Once the report was approved, information would be communicated to the Forum members.
Resolution:
- That it be noted that the final report of the project "Exploring Peanuts as a Diverse Food Product in Mid and Lower Income Groups" was still under consideration and would be communicated to the Forum members once it was approved.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That it be noted that the final report of the project "Exploring Peanuts as a Diverse Food Product in Mid and Lower Income Groups" was still under consideration and would be communicated to the Forum members once it was approved.
School Nutrition Program
(Resolution 7.1.3.2.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
Mr Keun reported that the Department of Education was reviewing the specifications and procurement procedures. He indicated that he attempted to set up a meeting with the Department of Education, but was not successful.
Resolution:
- That a discussion be scheduled with the Department of Education to confirm the inclusion and use of peanut butter in the school nutrition program.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That a discussion be scheduled with the Department of Education to confirm the inclusion and use of peanut butter in the school nutrition program.
Industry Priorities for 2025 – a call for input and identification of key objects
(Resolutions 7.1.3.3.1 and 7.1.3.3.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson reported that the projects and discussions identified in 2025 were ongoing, and Forum members were invited to share any ideas or issues they felt should be prioritised other than the items already on the agenda or actioned.
The Chairperson mentioned that the next date for the Groundnut Value Chain meeting would be communicated to the Forum members.
Resolution:
- That the next date for the Groundnut Value Chain meeting would be communicated to the Forum members.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That the next date for the Groundnut Value Chain meeting would be communicated to the Forum members.
Generic Marketing of Groundnuts
Social Media
The Chairperson indicated that she would assist the administration with inputs and ideas for Facebook and Instagram.
The Chairperson requested that the Forum members visit the OPDT/OAC webpage for links to the Facebook and Instagram pages.
Generic Marketing Project, University of Pretoria
The Chairperson reported that, due to the extensive research conducted by the University of Pretoria for OPDT/OAC, a new project was approved under generic marketing for groundnuts, and a contribution from the association was made towards the project.
The objective of this project was to launch a generic marketing campaign aimed at repositioning peanuts as an affordable and versatile ingredient in South Africa. The campaign would focus on high-impact, low-cost platforms to maximise outreach within the culinary, nutrition, and food service sectors. The campaign would include a 12-month, six-part editorial series that highlights peanuts as a modern, high-value ingredient for chefs, restaurants, nutritionists, and food professionals. Topics that would be covered include nutrition, sustainability, culinary innovation, farm-to-fork storytelling, allergen education, and menu integration.
Tariffs and Levies
Import Tariffs
(Resolution 7.2.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson reported during the previous meeting that the final submission to ITAC was made in August 2025. Stakeholders had the opportunity to present during a Special Commission meeting held online on 15 December 2025. Both the Forum and the applicant, RCL, made presentations, along with one from a large retail group, however, the contents of these presentations were not shared.
The Chairperson also noted that ITAC returned the matter to the DTIC minister in early January 2026, indicating that timelines and updates were now beyond their control. Given the time that elapsed, efforts would be made to find a contact in the Minister's office who may provide progress updates and an outlook on the outcome.
Any feedback and information related to the import tariff application would be communicated to all members of the Forum.
Resolution:
- That any feedback and information related to the import tariff application be communicated to all members of the Forum.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That any feedback and information related to the import tariff application be communicated to all members of the Forum.
Japan Import Tariffs
(Resolutions 7.2.2.1 and 7.2.2.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson mentioned that Mr Keun recommended during the previous meeting that the help of an individual who could connect the industry with senior government officials be sought. The individual would assist in facilitating a discussion about the matter with the appropriate contacts in government and exploring possible progress. The industry needs to find alternative ways to communicate their message and gather feedback.
Any feedback and updates regarding Japan's import tariffs would be communicated to all Forum members.
Resolutions:
- That the Japan import tariffs would remain on the agenda for future discussions and action plans.
Chairperson
Mr Louw
Mr Keun - That feedback regarding the Japan import tariff would be communicated to the Forum members.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That the Japan import tariffs would remain on the agenda for future discussions and action plans.
VAT Exemption Submission
(Resolutions 7.2.3.1 and 7.2.3.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
Mr Keun mentioned that, from the guidelines received for the submission process for the VAT Exemption application, some of the current studies may need to be updated.
Mr Keun reported that he engaged with Mr Louw from GrainSA and Mr Breitenbach from SAPA for guidance on their experience in respect of VAT Exemption submissions. He said that SAPA, regardless of their efforts, was not successful with their VAT exemption application.
Any feedback and updates regarding the VAT Exemption submission on peanut butter would be communicated to the members of the Forum.
Resolution:
- That any feedback and updates regarding the VAT Exemption submission on peanut butter would be communicated to the members of the Forum.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
- That any feedback and updates regarding the VAT Exemption submission on peanut butter would be communicated to the members of the Forum.
Industry Standards and Regulatory Matters
Crop Protection
Phasing-out of certain active ingredients
(Resolution 7.3.1.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson reported that all communication received from CropLife was distributed to Forum members by the administration.
Alternative products on Rootknot and lesion nematodes
Dr Steenkamp shared that several people, including AgVantage, were assisting with the research and specifically the planting of the trials. Chemical companies such as Villa Crop, Corteva, Andermatt PHP, Adama Agricultural Solutions, and Philagro SA have shown interest in collaborating, with Syngenta also expressing willingness for the next season.
Dr Steenkamp reported that recent samples show no signs of phytotoxicity, indicating that the products used were effective. Testing at higher dosages has also shown no signs of phytotoxicity. Dr Steenkamp mentioned that the research was conducted at six locations, namely Welkom, Hartbeesfontein, Setlagole, Jan Kempdorp, Hartswater and Potchefstroom. Overall, the current trials suggest positive outcomes for potential effectiveness against nematodes.
Dr Steenkamp mentioned that AgVantage has taken samples, and she would handle the counting and evaluation. Dr Steenkamp stated that additional sampling would be conducted at harvest time, although this would not affect the pod nematode population, which was also monitored out of curiosity to see if there were any changes. The pod nematodes could cause significant issues with yield quality, but so far, everything appears to be looking good. Dr Steenkamp would provide an update on the nematode trials at the next meeting.
Resolution:
- That Dr Steenkamp be requested to give feedback regarding the nematode trials at the next Forum meeting.
Chairperson
Dr Steenkamp
- That Dr Steenkamp be requested to give feedback regarding the nematode trials at the next Forum meeting.
Chemical application guidelines
The Chairperson reported that she would reach out to a potential contractor to help develop guidelines for active ingredients, optimal application timing, and recommended spraying programs for producers. This information aims to help producers prevent unnecessary damage to crops and, therefore, was crucial to maintain an independent stance while collaborating with chemical companies, promoting cooperation rather than conflict. Additionally, research results should be used responsibly to support safe agricultural practices.
Terbufos Prohibition Notice
The Forum noted the contents of Annexure B of the agenda.
Import Quality, Regulatory Control and MRL Testing
Industry and Departmental Workshop/Collaboration
(Resolution 7.3.2.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson stated that, in light of the recent peanut butter recall, a request for a meeting would be submitted to the Chairperson of the Food Safety Forum. This request, which follows discussions from previous Forum meetings, would be included in an official letter expressing the industry's concerns regarding the adequacy of local regulatory enforcement and control. Additionally, there was a need for the industry to understand the level of compliance among businesses that were not part of formal structures such as the SAGF, SAGA, and other supply chain organisations.
Resolution:
- That an official letter expressing the industry’s concerns regarding the adequacy of local regulatory enforcement and control be send to the Chairperson of the Food Safety Forum.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That an official letter expressing the industry’s concerns regarding the adequacy of local regulatory enforcement and control be send to the Chairperson of the Food Safety Forum.
Peanut Butter Recall – February 2026
(Resolution 7.3.2.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson mentioned that ButtaNut has voluntarily recalled their peanut butter from various retailers. ButtaNut was advised to contact the manufacturer, who has committed to identifying the issue and making necessary corrections. The Chairperson invited ButtaNut to participate in the Forum meeting or provide a statement but noted that public comments may need to be delayed until the National Consumer Commission (NCC) concludes their investigation.
The groundnuts in question were sourced from a Food Safety Certified local supplier. Information was gathered indicating that supply-side testing and certification were compliant with regulations. Feedback from Ms P Campbell of the Department of Health was also awaited.
Following a previous incident in 2024, industry stakeholders emphasised the importance of compliance across all sectors to ensure that both buyers and sellers verify that their business partners meet at least the minimum regulatory requirements.
The Chairperson reported that an invitation was sent to most of the SAGIS-registered entities to submit their certifications for inclusion in a register. Unfortunately, only the usual participants responded. It was noted that a register was developed and would be available on the websites of both the Forums and the association. The Chairperson was hopeful that more companies would join, and the intent was to highlight non-compliant operations while engaging with the Department of Health regarding their actions.
The association encourages stakeholders to report any sheller, processor, or manufacturer that does not comply with at least HACCP certification, as mandated by law, either confidentially or anonymously. The association was creating a contact point on their website for anonymous messages, or messages could be sent directly to the Chairperson of the Forum in strict confidence.
Resolution:
- That a request for a meeting would be submitted to the Chairperson of the Food Safety Forum regarding the recent peanut butter recall from ButtaNut.
Chairperson
SAGF
- That a request for a meeting would be submitted to the Chairperson of the Food Safety Forum regarding the recent peanut butter recall from ButtaNut.
Industry
Crop and Area Estimates
The Forum acknowledged the contents of Annexure C and Ms Scheepers' presentation on the preliminary area planted estimated for summer crops during the 2025/26 season.
Ms Scheepers and the CEC team were once again commended for their valuable contributions to the industry.
SA Grain Information Services (SAGIS)
The Forum noted the contents of Annexure D of the agenda.
Mr Higgs noted that there has been a 33% increase in roasted groundnut imports from Brazil due to the absence of duties on imported groundnuts. He compared this situation to the figures related to peanut butter, warning about the potential long-term impact on the groundnut market. Given the current international prices and exchange rates, further increases were anticipated.
Mr Higgs emphasised the urgent need to address the import tariff application and highlighted the importance of conducting a survey to gather insights from companies that could contribute. If this situation persists, it might lead to a decline in the number of South African groundnut farmers, ultimately resulting in stock shortages. He said that it was crucial to communicate the significance of the import tariff application in protecting the groundnut industry.
The Chairperson highlighted that one of the biggest disappointments was the withdrawal of the applicant for roasted peanuts. The Forum has decided not to seek another applicant for roasted peanuts until the import tariff for peanut butter was finalised.
The Chairperson emphasised the importance of finding a local company for a new roasted peanut application, noting that industry support would be essential, as the process was both costly and time-consuming. Additionally, information from the initial application would need to be updated with new data. Last year saw a slight decrease in roasted peanut imports to around 3,000 tonnes annually. The Chairperson reiterated that the import tariff for both peanut butter and roasted peanuts remain a priority, and urged role-players to reach out.
Aflatoxin Reports
(Resolutions 7.4.3.1 and 7.4.3.2 of the Groundnut Frum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson mentioned that the next report on aflatoxin would be scheduled for mid-2026, as previously discussed, and the information from all relevant laboratories would be included in the reporting process.
The Chairperson requested that PPECB and the other laboratories promptly notify the industry of any aflatoxin report trends or any red flags.
Resolutions:
- That it be noted that the next report on aflatoxin would be scheduled for mid-2026, and all relevant laboratories would be included in the reporting process.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF - That PPECB and the other laboratories promptly notify the industry of any aflatoxin report trends or any red flags.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That it be noted that the next report on aflatoxin would be scheduled for mid-2026, and all relevant laboratories would be included in the reporting process.
Industry Project: Parity-Based Price Model
(Resolution 7.4.4.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 21/10/2025)
The Chairperson reported that the Parity-Based Price model has been discussed multiple times, and was agreed that the model provides valuable insight into current price discovery by using historical information and international price trends. However, it should be emphasised that this model was not intended to set prices; rather, it serves as a tool for producers to assess price movements over time.
The Chairperson mentioned that while there appears to be limited demand for this information, it was decided that the model would be published. Similar models were maintained by organisations such as SAGIS and Grain SA.
The Parity-Based Price model would remain accessible to industry stakeholders through various communication platforms or upon direct request. However, there were concerns regarding the publication of this information. Despite the disclaimer and instructions that accompany the model, there was a risk that it may be misused as a pricing mechanism by individuals outside the informed and active industry community, particularly in the absence of a SAFEX-like basis price.
After a lengthy discussion, the Forum decided that the Parity-Based Price model would still be updated and published on the OPDT/OAC website.
Resolution:
- That the Parity-Based Price Model be updated and published on the OPDT/OAC website.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That the Parity-Based Price Model be updated and published on the OPDT/OAC website.
Articles
The Forum took note of the content of the article attached as Annexure E to the agenda:
- SA Grain Magazine: "So lyk aanplantings op droëland en onder besproeiing in SA" (Ms M Pienaar GSA en Ms R Beukes, Departement Landbou)
General
No information was reported.
Meeting date 2026
The next meeting of the Forum was scheduled for 15 July 2026.
Adjournment
As there was no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 12:30.