SA Groundnut Forum (SAGF)
Meeting held at the PRF Office building and also via a virtual platform (MS Teams) on Tuesday 21 October 2025 at 10:00
Opening
The meeting was opened with prayer by Mr C Louw.
Welcome
The Chairperson welcomed all attendees to the last meeting of the SA Groundnut Forum of 2025 and encouraged their participation in the discussions.
The Chairperson extended a special word of welcome to Dr C Muller and Dr B Pretorius from the University of Pretoria, who would be presenting their research project results.
Attendance
Present
Ms A Botha Chairperson Mr W Higgs Triotrade Mr G Keun Chief Executive Officer Mr C Louw GSA Ms M Scheepers NDA Dr W Snijman ARC-GC Dr K van Huysteen SANSOR Ms S van Aardt GSA Ms M Du Preez OPDT By Invitation
Dr C Muller University of Pretoria Dr B Pretorius University of Pretoria Via MS Teams
Dr ZA Bello ARC-GC Mr M Beukes VGM Mr D Boltman Lorenz SA (Pty) Ltd Mr F Breedt Tiger Brands Dr J du Toit ARC-GC Mr H Engelbrecht PPECB Mr M Fache NDA Mr J Greef SA Peanut Ms W Haasbroek SGS Mr MJ van Rensburg Department of Agriculture, Mpumalanga Mr C Kenny RCL Foods Mr M Kgasago NDA Mr H Lazarus LB Nuts Ms M Mojapelo NDA Ms L Masibuko Tiger Brands Mr E Maree RE Groundnuts Ms D Mosehla OPDT Ms M Moloko NDA Mr C Nortjé GWK Ms S Rudolph RCL Foods Mr S Shandu OPDT Ms F Sundani Nedbank Mr A Snyman GWK Mr M Thamaga NAMC Mr T Tintinger SA Peanut Ms L van Blommestein RCL Foods Mr A Visser SA Peanut Apologies
Dr S Steenkamp ARC-GC Dr E Briedenhann OAC Mr B Schultz SAGIS Mr G Roos OPDT Mr C van der Merwe Agbiz Grain 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.
Confirmation of agenda
The agenda was accepted as it stood.
Approval of minutes
Approval of the minutes of the meeting of the SA Groundnut Forum held on 16 July 2025
The minutes of the SA Groundnut Forum meeting held on 16 July 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 16 July 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 16/07/2025)
The Forum took note of the first draft of the brochure/manual of registered groundnut cultivars that was attached as Annexure B to the agenda. A copy is also available under Crops > Groundnuts > General Info.
The Chairperson mentioned that additional information was received and that a revised document would be published soon.
The Chairperson thanked the members who assisted with the project and the success achieved so far.
Resolution:
- That it be noted that additional information was received and that a revised document would be published soon.
Chairperson
Ms Du Preez
SAGF
- That it be noted that additional information was received and that a revised document would be published soon.
ARC Production Manual, Dr W Snijman
(Resolution 7.1.1.2.1 on the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
Dr Snijman mentioned that the Afrikaans version was handed to the printers and that the English version of the production manual was in the final stages of editing 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 the English version 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 the English version 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
(Resolutions 7.1.2.1.1 and 7.1.2.1.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Chairperson stated that the ARC Groundnut Cultivar meeting took place on 3 September 2025. Dr Snijman provided feedback on the DNA fingerprinting and 'true to type' projects. It was reported that breeder seed availability for the 2026/27 projections includes Sellie, Akwa, Kwarts, Anel, Oleic, and the new variety, ARC47.
Furthermore, for the 2025 season, it was reported that 300 bags of Kwarts and 100 bags of Anel seeds were available, along with smaller quantities of Sellie, Akwa, and Anel. Akwa and Kwarts still have dispensation to upgrade their multiplication stages.
The Chairperson emphasised that the ARC's focus remains on nucleus management, with royalties from commercial seed sales serving as an important funding source for the breeding program. Members of the South African Groundnut Association (SAGA) continue to maintain and multiply seeds for commercial use under a standing agreement.
The Chairperson reported that during the meeting, feedback was also provided regarding the 2024/25 Elite Trials involving various genotypes. It was important to note that the Elite Trials primarily focus on resistance and other traits whilst also considering acceptable yield and quality outcomes.
Additionally, the ARC indicated that the trials' yields were affected by climatic conditions throughout the season and during harvesting. The industry requested careful handling of reports published from 3 September 2025 to ensure correct interpretation of yield outcomes and to avoid misleading impressions of actual yields.
Dr Snijman pointed out that it was important to consider that the breeding material used for the groundnut cultivar trials could lead to discrepancies in the yields observed by the farmers. He suggested that the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) should acquire seed from the multiplicators for the groundnut cultivar trials instead of using breeding material. This approach would enhance the reliability of yield comparisons between the groundnut cultivar trials and the yields reported by farmers.
The question was raised that if the researchers don't look at yield, what other characteristics do they take into consideration?
After an in-depth discussion, it was considered that the groundnut cultivar trials primarily focus on drought and pest tolerance, as well as yield. However, conducting these trials presents significant challenges. To evaluate a sample size of 1,800 kernels, one must first consider factors such as grade, blemishes, diseases, and stains, and then assess the variations within the same sample that present similar issues. These trial assessments indicate grading potential, a crucial factor determining producers and processors' income and sustainability.
The Chairperson mentioned that about two or three years ago, the industry reached a consensus on a priority list, with yield at the top, followed by shorter growing cycles, among other factors. It might be a good idea to revisit the list and send it to the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) for review.
The Chairperson committed that the priority list would be circulated to the industry before it would be communicated to the ARC for review.
Resolution:
- That the priority list would be circulated to the industry role players before it be communicated to the ARC for review.
Chairperson
SAGF
- That the priority list would be circulated to the industry role players before it be communicated to the ARC for review.
2024/25 Industry Trials, Mr L de Kock
(Resolution 7.1.2.2.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Chairperson stated that an industry meeting of stakeholders for the industry trials was scheduled for Friday, 24 October 2025. An invitation to attend the meeting was circulated to all the seed producers, and all the participants directly involved in planting the industry trials, as well as the largest buyers, for example, RCL and Tiger Brands.
Currently, five promising lines were identified and believed worth considering for registration. The purpose of the meeting was to present these options to seed producers and potential buyers, highlighting the yields, oil content, and other important traits. The key question was whether the role players would be interested in purchasing these cultivars if the producers could successfully cultivate it. Most of the lines were of Spanish with a focus on high choice grade yielding, shorter-growing varieties.
The Chairperson mentioned that the association aims to fill the gap while the industry awaits the ARC's continued development of more locally appropriate cultivars. Additionally, the industry was considering methods to expedite the multiplication of these potential varieties. If the association moves forward with the registration process, it would also be discussed during the session on Friday, 24 October 2025.
The Chairperson expressed a special thanks to Mr Lazarus and Mr De Kock for their continued work and coordination with other stakeholders in these programs (such as ICRISAT and the ARC). She also thanked all the individual producers involved in the project for their effort and hard work to establish the necessary potential varieties to date.
The Chairperson mentioned that feedback would be communicated to the Forum members during the next meeting.
A question was raised regarding the operational status of the ARC's phenotyping machine and whether it could be used for the Elite and Industry trials.
Dr Snijman confirmed that the machine was indeed functional. He explained that the phenotype machine could test various characteristics under different conditions. Additionally, he mentioned that the two previously registered cultivars were currently being tested with the phenotyping machine. Dr Snijman also reported that many other varieties could be added for testing, if there was sufficient space available.
The Chairperson suggested that the use of the phenotyping machine and its availability for testing the potential varieties be discussed during the industry meeting scheduled for Friday, 24 October 2025.
Resolutions:
- That the use of the phenotyping machine and its availability for testing potential varieties be discussed during the industry meeting scheduled for Friday, 24 October 2025.
Chairperson
SAGF - That feedback regarding the industry meeting of stakeholders in respect of the industry trials scheduled for Friday, 24 October 2025, be communicated to the Forum members during the next meeting.
Chairperson
Dr Snyman
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That the use of the phenotyping machine and its availability for testing potential varieties be discussed during the industry meeting scheduled for Friday, 24 October 2025.
ARC Open Day, Dr K Mashingaidze and Dr W Snijman
(Resolution 7.1.2.4a of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Chairperson stated that the ARC did not hold an open day during the last production season, and the industry would be notified in advance if an open day was planned for the next season.
Resolution:
- That the industry should be notified well in advance if an open day for the next production season was planned by the ARC.
Chairperson
SAGF
- That the industry should be notified well in advance if an open day for the next production season was planned by the ARC.
Research Projects
Consumer & Product Research
(Resolution 7.1.3.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Forum took note of the summary in respect of the project "A Scoping Study of the Consumer Market" attached as Annexure C to the agenda.
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, it would be communicated to the Forum members.
Dr Carmen Muller presented the research on the following projects "A Scoping Study of the Consumer Market and Exploring Peanuts as a Diverse Food Product in Mid and Lower Income Groups".
Dr Muller stated that the peanut consumption market could be divided into four main categories:
- Health and Wellness:
- Health-conscious consumers – reduced salt/sugar/ preservatives, fortified peanut products, peanut-based protein-powders.
- These were typically targeted toward middle- to upper-income groups who prioritise clean labels and high nutritional value.
- Functional Snack:
- Energy bars, roasted nuts, and trail mixes that appeal to active consumers.
- Focus on protein content, healthy fats, or specific health benefits.
- Affordable staple – lower income segment:
- Affordable source of protein.
- Bulk purchasing/house brands – peanut butter and roasted peanuts.
- Cost-effective options that still offer nutritional benefits.
- More basic formulation.
In the flavoured and gourmet snack and cultural ingredient higher-income markets, the following could be noted:
- Flavoured peanuts and gourmet peanut butters (with added ingredients such as chocolate or coconut).
- Consumers were willing to spend more on unique or premium experiences.
She reported that the burden of malnutrition in South Africa was that 26% of South Africans had inadequate food access in 2023, according to StatsSA.
The Current peanut market trends:
- Functional food (i.e. with health claims) – especially in markets focused on plant-based protein, active lifestyles, sports nutrition. Consumers were becoming more aware and required trustworthy information.
- Peanut skins, which were commonly discarded, contain nutritional and economic value; efforts were underway to extract these for use in functional foods or nutraceuticals.
- The peanut butter market was growing; there was increasing interest in "healthier" product variants (low sugar, reduced salt, organic, "clean label").
Methodology
- Trends
- Investigating the food market
- The changing consumer
- Market Insight
- Market investigation
- Products available
- Consumer Feedback
- Consumer survey (n=214)
- Spaza shop survey (n=10)
Dr Muller reported that the question asked, "Was there something that you would like the peanut industry to know about your shop/consumers?"
- They would like to have a sponsor for shelves to display in a professional manner that would attract more customers.
- They must add a bit of salt to peanuts with raisins, as customers always complain.
- Yes! If the industry could come and deliver to stalls, that would be cheaper, and it would save them money and time going to shops to buy our stock.
- They would like the industry to keep the prices as stable as possible because any increase would make them lose customers, as people have no money to buy expensive things, so when the prices increase, the vendors would lose more customers.
- Yes, they would like more variety of peanuts in the shops, and it should be affordable so the vendors could be able to buy and sell at a good price.
- If the industry could have more variety at affordable rates.
- If the supplier could reduce the cost.
Furthermore, how often do you consume various peanut products?
- 65% of millennials eat peanut butter at least once per week, up from 59% in 2021.
- 49% of Gen Z eat peanut butter at least once per week, up from 44% in 2021.
- 48% of millennials eat peanuts at least once per week, up from 46% in 2021.
Dr Muller reported further regarding the introduction of peanuts to infants.
- Babies at high risk of developing peanut allergy were included in the LEAP study.
- Children who started eating peanuts before one year of age and kept regularly eating peanuts until 5 years of age had less peanut allergy when compared to a group of children who did not start eating peanuts until age 5.
- The children who were fed peanuts under 1 year of age and included them regularly in their diets had an 86% reduction in peanut allergy compared to the children who avoided peanuts.
- Overall, the percentage of children with peanut allergy was higher in the group who had avoided peanuts (17%) compared with the group who had regularly eaten peanuts (3%).
Dr Muller mentioned that on the way forward, the following could be taken into consideration:
- Nutrition education highlighting the value of peanuts in the diet.
- Heroing peanuts in everyday recipes to showcase their versatility and nutritional value.
- Promote early introduction of peanuts as a safe and beneficial practice to help reduce allergy risk, with clear communication and education targeted at consumers, mothers, and healthcare clinics.
Dr Muller reported that the following publications were in the process of being published or had already been published:
- Consumer investigation of peanuts in South Africa’s formal and informal markets.
- 4th Food Chemistry Conference, Reshaping Global Food Systems. 14-16 October 2025, Hilton Glasgow, Scotland, UK
- Scientific publication: Exploring peanut consumption and market perceptions in South Africa’s mid and lower income consumers.
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
- Health and Wellness:
School Nutrition Program
(Resolution 7.1.3.2.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
Mr Keun reported that the Department of Education was currently reviewing the specifications and procurement procedures. He indicated that everything should be finalised by April 2026, at which point feedback would be communicated.
Additionally, it was decided to schedule a meeting with the Department of Education for early 2026.
Resolution:
- That a discussion be scheduled for early 2026 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 for early 2026 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
(Resolution 7.1.3.3.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Chairperson reported that the workshop was held on 24 July 2025, with role players involved in processing and marketing, as well as individuals involved in the industry trials. Issues discussed included product and producer stock intake standards, non-compliance with food safety regulations, laboratory compliance standards, trial planning and feedback, chemical research projects, the Grow for Gold Competition, and tariff issues.
The Chairperson mentioned that the workshop discussion was overall a very positive experience for the role players, and it was decided to make it an annual event. This workshop would in future be handled the same way as the value-chain meeting that was held previously, and meetings/workshops in this regard would be discussed with the administration, and feedback would be communicated to the Forum.
Resolutions:
- That a workshop should be held annually and handled the same way as the value-chain meeting that was held previously.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF - That feedback regarding the annual workshop be communicated to the Forum members.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That a workshop should be held annually and handled the same way as the value-chain meeting that was held previously.
Generic Marketing of Groundnuts
Grow for Gold Competition
(Resolution 7.1.4.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Chairperson reported that the workshop that was held on 24 July 2025 had an in-depth discussion regarding the inclusion of Groundnuts in the Grow for Gold Competition.
The request originally came from the Forum’s objective to balance the cultivar trials and evaluation with promotion of best practices. GrainSA expressed support for this initiative, but on further consideration, it became clear that due to the unique production and intake/storage methods of Groundnuts, protocols for the competition would require substantial, and possibly unachievable, changes and that the R30 000 prize money per division would have to be sponsored by the industry. The Chairperson mentioned that, since the majority of locally produced cultivars were owned by the ARC, a primary limitation was the lack of seed companies that could be involved and offer sponsorship, unlike in sectors like Soybeans and Maize, where these companies contribute significantly.
Further to the above, the Chairperson mentioned that initially, the industry considered only two divisions – dryland and irrigation – with prize money funded by the industry, but recognised that this would not yield meaningful results.
The Chairperson thanked GrainSA, in an earlier email as well as during the meeting, for their understanding and support, and that the industry appreciates the responsiveness.
Social Media
(Resolution 7.1.4.2.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Chairperson mentioned that the Forum needs to focus on improving social media strategies and better understanding how to reach the public effectively. It's essential to tailor messages to meet the public's needs and consider involving influencers for specific markets. Collaborating with larger role players in the industry could also help to share information and work together, because traditional media, TV and radio advertising still hold significant value.
Tariffs and Levies
Import Tariffs
(Resolution 7.2.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Forum noted the contents of Annexure D of the agenda.
The Chairperson provided feedback on the application for import tariffs on peanut butter. She noted that the latest update from ITAC indicated that the investigation into peanut butter was in its final stages. The Forum submitted and again reconfirmed support on 22 August 2025, following the Forum’s May 2025 submission of a stakeholders questionnaire by ITAC. The Commission would consider the final merits of the case and decide which information would be communicated to relevant role players and stakeholders.
Mr Kenny reported that ITAC completed their public participation process, which involved direct engagement with Shoprite and others, and that they were finalising their recommendations to present to the ITAC commissioners. Although personal interviews may take place during the commission hearing stage, the consultative process did not reveal any new information. The industry was eager for a decision on the tariff so that the next steps could be determined. ITAC aims to conclude the process by the end of the year.
The Chairperson thanked Mr Kenny for RCL’s involvement and his hard work during the process of the import tariff applications. Mr Charl van der Merwe of Agbiz has been briefed, and where possible and appropriate, they would use their platforms to lobby on the industry’s behalf.
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 16/07/2025)
The Forum noted the contents of Annexure E of the agenda.
The Chairperson reported that a letter was sent on 22 September 2025 to the Minister of Trade and Industry and Agriculture, and DIRCO and that no feedback was received.
Mr Keun recommended 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
(Resolution 7.2.3.1 and 7.2.3.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
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 said that he would reach out to Mr Louw for his assistance as the Sorghum Cluster had a similar application.
Mr Keun mentioned further that he would also reach out to Mr Isak Breitenbach from SAPA for guidance on their submission process. He reported that two applications must be submitted, one for peanut butter and another for TVPs related to soy food. Mr Keun emphasised that it was essential to ensure that these applications reach the right person and that a follow-up system needs to be in place.
Any feedback and updates regarding the VAT Exemption submission on peanut butter would be communicated to the members of the Forum.
Resolutions:
- That Mr Keun engaged with Mr Louw from GrainSA and Mr Breitenbach from SAPA for guidance on their experience in respect of VAT Exemption submissions.
Chairperson
Mr Keun - 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
- That Mr Keun engaged with Mr Louw from GrainSA and Mr Breitenbach from SAPA for guidance on their experience in respect of VAT Exemption submissions.
Industry Standards and Regulatory Matters
Crop Protection
Phasing-out of certain active ingredients
(Resolutions 7.3.1.1.1 and 7.3.1.1.2 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Forum acknowledged the content of the document that was included as Annexure F in the agenda.
The Chairperson reported that there were numerous communications regarding the withdrawal and reclassification of certain chemical products over the past months. The recent summary from CropLife encapsulates much of the information.
Mr Louw asked that, considering the phasing out of certain products, the Forum members could send information regarding essential products to him at GrainSA, especially the products the industry couldn’t do without during the transition, because it would help to advocate the information to the registrar.
The Chairperson mentioned that she would reach out again to the relevant role players in the industry during the meeting scheduled for 24 October 2025.
Resolution:
- That information regarding essential products in the phasing out process be sent to Mr Louw from GrainSA, especially the products the industry couldn’t do without during the transition, because it would help to advocate the information to the registrar.
Chairperson
Mr Louw
SAGF
- That information regarding essential products in the phasing out process be sent to Mr Louw from GrainSA, especially the products the industry couldn’t do without during the transition, because it would help to advocate the information to the registrar.
Alternative products on Rootknot and lesion nematodes
(Resolution 7.3.2.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Chairperson mentioned that this matter was discussed during the workgroup meeting that was held on 24 July 2025.
The Chairperson reported that Dr Steenkamp was discussing trial plans with Advantage Chemical Corporation for alternative products targeting rootknot and lesion nematodes as per discussions previously minuted. The trials would span over three seasons, with six trials each, involving four to six applications for both dryland and irrigation. The focus was on measuring nematode load or density rather than yield and quality.
The industry thanked Dr Steenkamp and her team for leading this effort, especially as the industry faces a reduction in available nematode products. She mentioned that hopefully the process would help to fast-track registration for some alternative products.
Chemical application guidelines
The Chairperson mentioned that there was ongoing discussion about conducting trials on the effects of certain applications on Groundnuts, specifically focusing on yield, plant safety, and development.
During the workshop that took place on 24 July 2025 SAGA proposed creating guidelines for chemical applications on Groundnuts, outlining best practices and application processes to optimise results while minimising risks to quality and yield. The Chairperson mentioned that the initial discussions with potential researchers were underway to develop a project plan, although funding remained a concern. The Chairperson mentioned that this would likely be a multi-year project that requires independent control trials.
The Chairperson reported that a significant issue within the industry was the lack of transparent information for producers, while chemical agents provide advice, which could sometimes lead to unintended consequences. SAGA felt that the project must be seen as a priority and does recognise the costs involved, but knows that it would be essential to do the project correctly. SAGA would keep the Forum updated on developments and seek input from the industry role players when necessary.
Furthermore, the Chairperson mentioned that there was also ongoing dialogue regarding the responsibility of chemical companies to conduct trials on specific or newly registered groundnut cultivars. In practice, the chemical companies would test their chemicals on Groundnuts, and if the expected effects occur without extreme negative effects on the cultivar, it would be registered, but trials would not be repeated for all new registered commercial cultivars. It was mentioned that any private and independent trials on chemicals and publication of results need to be balanced with the understanding that labelling a product as damaging could have unintended consequences for the larger industry, already faced with limited chemical protection options.
The industry needed clear guidelines for active ingredients, satisfactory application timing, and suggested spraying programs for producers. This information should help the producers to prevent unnecessary damage to crops. It's essential to maintain an independent stance while working with chemical companies, ensuring cooperation rather than conflict and that research results should be used responsibly to support safe agricultural practices.
Import Quality, Regulatory Control and MRL Testing
Industry and Departmental Workshop/Collaboration
(Resolution 7.3.2.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Chairperson reported that, as was discussed in previous Forum meetings where the Departments were represented, an industry workshop with the Department of Health and the Department of Agriculture, focusing on food safety certification compliance, especially for smaller and newer entrants, remains a key focus area. She mentioned that established players typically have their HACCP and certifications in place, but newcomers often lack guidance and may not realise the importance of such certifications.
The Chairperson mentioned that the association (SAGA) plans to create a database of industry participants and their certifications to help buyers verify credentials and identify uncertified entities. The main goal was to uplift the industry and maintain its integrity for new role players. The Chairperson emphasised that the aim would be to organise a roundtable with the Department of Health and the Department of Agriculture to address uncertified entities and discuss import regulations, testing processes and procedures in urban and rural areas. Although the meeting may not occur until early 2026, the industry needs to work collaboratively and proactively.
The Chairperson invited members of the Forum to submit any suggestions, and she looked forward to scheduling the long-outstanding important workshop with the Department of Health and the Department of Agriculture.
Resolution:
- That a workshop or meeting be organised with the Department of Health and Department of Agriculture to address uncertified entities and discuss import regulations and testing processes procedures in urban and rural areas.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That a workshop or meeting be organised with the Department of Health and Department of Agriculture to address uncertified entities and discuss import regulations and testing processes procedures in urban and rural areas.
Plant Breeders' Rights
The Forum acknowledged the content of the document that was included as Annexure G in the agenda.
The Chairperson mentioned that the Plant Breeder Rights Act, 12 of 2018, was updated on 25 June 2025. Additionally, the regulations associated with this act were released on 13 June 2025. These updates were for notification purposes and would be implemented as needed as the industry proceeded with registrations and related processes.
Industry
Crop and Area Estimates
The Forum acknowledged the contents of Annexure H and Ms Scheepers' presentation on the forecast for Groundnut production. The Forum was eagerly anticipating the release of the intentions of producers to plant summer crops for 2026, scheduled for publication on 28 October 2025.
Ms Scheepers and the CEC team were once again commended for their invaluable contributions to the industry.
SA Grain Information Services (SAGIS)
The Forum noted the contents of Annexure I of the agenda.
No new information was reported.
Aflatoxin Reports
(Resolution 7.4.3.1 of the Groundnut Frum minutes of 16/07/2025)
The Forum took note of the contents of Annexure J of the agenda.
The Chairperson announced 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 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 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 16/07/2025)
The Forum took note of the contents of Annexure K of the agenda.
The Chairperson mentioned that the Parity-Based Price model was part of the industry price transparency project, which originated back in 2012. The Parity-Based Price Model would be updated at the end of November 2025 and published on the OPDT website.
Resolution:
- That the Parity-Based Price Model be updated at the end of November 2025 and published on the OPDT website.
Chairperson
Mr Keun
SAGF
- That the Parity-Based Price Model be updated at the end of November 2025 and published on the OPDT website.
Articles
The Forum took note of the content of the article attached as Annexure L to the agenda:
- SA Grain Magazine: "Wat die kristalbal sê oor aalwurmdoders SA" (Dr S Steenkamp, ARC-GC)
General
None.
Election of office bearers
Election of Chairperson
(Resolution 8.1.1 of the Groundnut Forum minutes of 3/11/2022)
The Chairperson handed the chair to Mr Keun.
Mr Keun opened the election process and asked for nominations for Chairperson. Ms A Botha was duly re-elected by unanimous vote as Chairperson for the next three (3) years, as well as a representative of the SA Groundnut Forum on the Oilseeds Advisory Committee.
The Forum members congratulated Ms Botha on her election as Chairperson.
Resolution:
- That Ms A Botha was duly re-elected as Chairperson for the next three (3) years, as well as a representative of the SA Groundnut Forum on the Oilseeds Advisory Committee.
All
- That Ms A Botha was duly re-elected as Chairperson for the next three (3) years, as well as a representative of the SA Groundnut Forum on the Oilseeds Advisory Committee.
Meeting date 2026
The next meeting of the Forum was scheduled for 17 February 2026.
Adjournment
As there was no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 12:30.