SA Groundnut Forum (SAGF)
held on 28 October 2020 at 10:00 by means of a virtual platform (MS Teams)

1. Opening

   The meeting was opened by Mr A Visser with a short message from Proverbs 3:5 and prayer.

2. Welcome

   The Chairperson welcomed all present to the last meeting of the Groundnut Forum for a turbulent 2020. She reminded the members that the forum's Terms of Reference will apply for the duration of the meeting.

3. Attendance

   Present
   Ms A Botha	Chairperson
   Dr E Briendenhann	OAC
   Mrs P Campbell	Department of Health
   Mr T Clark	RCL Foods
   Ms A Collins	Agbiz Grain
   Mr H Engelbrecht	PPECB
   Mr E Goldschagg	SANSOR
   Mr G Heyns	SACTA
   Mr RW Higgs	Triotrade
   Mr N Ismail	Bureau Veritas (M&L Laboratory Services)
   Mr G Keun	Chief Executive Officer
   Mr H Lazarus	LB Nuts
   Ms C Laubscher	RCL Foods
   Mr C Louw	Grain SA
   Mr P Moopeloa	Bureau Veritas (M&L Laboratory Services)
   Ms M Mattsson	C. Steinweg Bridge
   Dr D Naicker	CSIR
   Mr W Mostert	Precision Oil Laboratories
   Mr T Prinsloo	ARC Grain Crops Institute
   Mr F Prinsloo	Tiger Brands
   Mr B Schultz	SAGIS
   Mr W Snijman	ARC Grain Crops Institute
   Dr S Steenkamp	ARC-GCI
   Ms L Swart	SGS
   Mr L van der Walt	Grain SA
   Mr A van Rensburg	Tiger Brands
   Ms I Vaugh	Tiger Brands
   Mr G van Wyk	VGM
   Mr R Van Wyk	Pakworks
   Mr A Visser	Golden Peanut
   Ms M du Preez	OPDT/OAC
   Apologies
   Mr L de Kock	Roba Foods
   Mr GC Nortje	GWK
   Mr N Hawkins	SAGIS
   Mr W Lemmer	Agbiz Grain
   Mr K van Huysteen	SANSOR
   Ms L Muller	Triotrade
   Mr R Beukes	DALRRD
   Ms M Scheepers	DALRRD
   Dr N Mnonopi	PPECB

4. Personalia

   A moment is taken to think of farmers, employees and families who were affected by the devastating fires in regions of the Free State and surrounding areas, as well as heighten political tension in farming communities. The Forum also sympathise with Ms A Schoeman from the Oilseeds office who suffered the loss of property and beloved pets due to a house fire.

5. Finalisation of agenda

   The format of the agenda was adjusted by grouping related issues to facilitate discussion. It was accepted without any changes or additions.

6. Approval of minutes

   With a few small corrections noted, the minutes of the meeting held on 28 July 2020 were approved as a true reflection of the proceedings, and the Chairperson thanked the staff responsible for the accurate recording of the discussions.

   Resolutions:

   1. That the minutes of the meeting of the SA Groundnut Forum held on 28 July 2020, be approved.

      Chairperson
      Forum Members

   2. That the approved minutes of 28 July 2020 be published on the OPDT/OAC website after amendments have been made.

      Ms Du Preez
      Website

7. Matters arising from the minutes

   1. Strategic Industry Plan

      The Chairperson gave a brief overview of the Strategic Industry plan and mentioned that the document is updated once a year and again be discussed during the October meeting.

      1. Annual revision of Industry Key Focus Areas

         The Chairperson gave a brief overview of the Strategic Industry Plan and mentioned that the document is updated once a year and will be attached to the agenda of the next forum meeting.

         Resolution:

         1. That the Strategic Industry Plan be attached to the agenda of the next forum meeting.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun

   2. Producer Interaction, Information, and Events

      1. Annual Farmer Day / Road Show

         (Resolutions 7.1.2.1 - 7.1.2.3 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/7/2020)

         The Chairman mentioned that the survey with regards to GMO groundnuts with the larger companies as well as the well-known import and export companies has not been attended to as yet. This matter will be kept on the agenda.

         Furthermore, the Chairperson mentioned that the planned, annual roadshow did not take place due to the current Covid-19 pandemic and restrictions.

         The Chairperson gave feedback on the Workshop/Industry discussion that took place on 16 October 2020 in Wolmeransstad and thank the producers, selection plants and various traders and processors for their positive attitude, willingness to engage and valuable inputs during the discussions. Specifically the frustration felt by producers were noted. More detail on the discussions will be elaborated on at the specific agenda points.

         Resolution:

         1. That it be noted that the survey with regards to GMO groundnuts with the larger companies as well as the well-known import and export companies has not been attended to yet. This matter will be kept on the agenda.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun

      2. Transparent Pricing and Market Information

         (Resolution 10.7.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

         The Chairperson mentioned that this item was discussed during the Workshop/ Industry discussion that took place on 16 October 2020 and will be kept on the agenda. Further discussion will take place in this regard and a draft document will be attached to the agenda of the next forum meeting for discussion.

         Resolution:

         1. That a draft document regarding the transparent pricing and marketing information will be attached to the agenda of the next forum meeting for discussion.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun

   3. Tariffs and Levies

      1. Import tariffs

         (Resolution 7.3.1.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 13/02/2020)

         The Chairperson gave an overview of the progress on the tariff applications (Roasted Groundnuts and Peanut Butter) that were submitted to ITAC during the last week of June 2020. It seems from feedback received from the consultants as well as applicants that the two ITAC investigation teams were quick to respond and that the consulation and verification processes, due to properly formulated applications, so far went very well. She mentioned that if everything goes according to plan there was talk that the Peanut Butter application might be on the Minister's desk before the end of the year.

         Feedback will be communicated to the forum members regarding the progress with the import tariff applications to ITAC as soon as it becomes available.

         Resolution:

         1. That progress with regards to the import tariff applications to ITAC will be communicated to the forum members as soon as it becomes available.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun

      2. Breeding and Technology Statutory Levy

         (Resolution 9.3.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

         The Chairperson gave a brief overview of the previous discussions about the breeding and technology statutory levy. During a meeting on the 17th September 2020 between the ARC Grain Crops Institute, representatives from Grain SA, Mr Keun, Mr de Kock and the Chairperson it was explained what the industry hoped to accomplish with a possible Breeding & Technology Levy. It was confirmed that producers will support such a levy only if an agreement can be reached with the ARC on how these funds would be allocated towards groundnut development and cultivar management activities and costs only. It was also made clear that since they are still the major cultivar owner and breeder of groundnuts in South Africa, the industry very strongly relies on the continued support and co-operation from the ARC. Dr Mashingaidze confirmed the ARC's commitment to their groundnut program and was amenable to such an agreement. Mr T Prinsloo said a potential concept agreement for consideration by the ARC/Industry workgroup have been drawn up for distribution and comment.

         The Chairperson mentioned that the breeding and technology statutory levy was also discussed during the Workshop of 16 October 2020. During this discussion, commercial producers, seed producers and other interested parties requested that, in addition to discussions with the ARC, alternative models and structures within the industry should also be considered. Producers confirmed that they are open to contributing by means of a levy, but that the industry has to ensure that everything possible will be done to ensure access to high yielding, high quality and marketable cultivars and seed.

         After a detailed discussion, it was decided that the actions towards the breeding and technology statutory levy will be considered as discussions progress and become clear in the larger strategy going forward.

         Resolution:

         1. That the actions towards the breeding and technology statutory levy will be considered as discussions progress and become clear in the larger strategy going forward.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun

   4. Generic Marketing

      1. South African delegation to Japan

         (Resolution 7.5.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

         The Chairperson suggested that the matter should remain on the agenda and be revisited once the industry has addressed some of the issues discussed in the larger industry strategy and are once again in a position to make responsible and relevant presentations to the international arena.

         Resolution:

         1. That the matter should remain on the agenda and that feedback will be communicated to the forum members once certain strategies have been further developed and executed.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun
            Members

      2. Industry Quality Brand

         (Resolution 10.3.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

         Since this topic might be influenced by upcoming industry discussions, the Chairperson requested that the matter be held in abeyance for discussion at the next forum meeting.

         Resolution:

         1. That the matter be held in abeyance for discussion at the next forum meeting.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun

   5. Industry Structure and Representation

      1. Operational co-ordinating position

         (Resolution 7.7.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

         After a brief overview on the way forward with an operational co-ordinating position, including consideration of effective structures within other similar industries, the Chairperson suggested that a draft document will be attached to the agenda of the next forum meeting for discussion.

         Resolution:

         1. That a draft document will be attached to the agenda of the next forum meeting for discussion.

            Chairperson
            Mr Keun

      2. SA Groundnut Forum: Terms of Reference

         Notice was taken of the contents of the document "SA Groundnut Forum: Terms of Reference" attached as Annexure B to the agenda.

         The Chairperson stated, that if the way forward necessitates, certain operational functions might in future be delegated elsewhere by the Forum, however, very importantly, the SA Groundnut Forum's structure, representation, aim and role as acknowledged mouthpiece for the industry will remain unchanged.

         Mr Louw commented on the importance of establishing a time line for investigating and implementing any new strategies by perhaps mandating a smaller working group and that self funding of any new structure should be the preferable.

         Mr Higgs suggests that a model similar to that adapted by producers in Texas be considered. Mr Visser commented that Dr J Purchase (Agbiz) is, on behalf of various grain industries, engaging with government and the wholesale sector to muster support for local agricultural suppliers and commodity development. He suggest that the Forum contact Dr Purchase to be included in this process.

8. Industry information and marketing aspects

   1. Imports: quality and Aflatoxin control

      (Resolutions 7.6.1.1-7.6.1.3 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

      Cognisance was taken of the feedback given by Ms Campbell regarding the procedures in respect of border post imports and how border post imports will be handled in the future.

      In summary she reported that there were some communication issues and that they were not party to the most recent discussions. She advised of one incident that was investigated with the issue being that Customs did not report the import to Port Health for checking.

      In last year two peanut butter consignments were refused importation due to non-compliance to local aflatoxin regulation. She confirms that the port of entry check on aflatoxin levels or certification, as well as HACCP certification from the exporting party as this is a requirement for all local groundnut handlers and processors.

      Port Health has now been nationalised which allows for better co-ordination of the functions. Durban and Cape Town are co-ordinated as the Coastal Region, with the understanding that most groundnut imports will enter through these ports.

      Ms Campbell continued to explain that after an impasse of two years, the Department of Health's building is still not deemed safe for all employees to return to the offices, and Mr Thabethe, who was assigned to attend the Forum meetings has indicated that he is prepared to participate in offsite meetings and might therefore be re-instated as the departmental representative.

      The Chairperson thanked Ms Campbell for her overview and explained that the frustration of the industry is that little to no information is available on the level of aflatoxin testing and control with regards to imports and retail, compared to the strict and well administered local and export markets. The industry needs to be aware of the level of risk in this regard to be able to consider possible action to safeguard the industry and our consumers. She suggests that more frequent interaction might assist in putting these concerns to rest and undertook to contact Mr Thabethe and Ms Campbell to highlight some of the issues.

      It was once again confirmed that aflatoxin cannot be monitored on farmers stock imports as producers rejected the notion of a local regulation. Control is therefore limited to selected and graded imports as well as peanut butter. Port Health are now receiving clearer instruction on certification to be checked even before testing is done. Ms Du Plessis, responsible for HACCP, is currently developing a standard operating procedure for Port Health to assist them in better managing the issue and verification of the legitimacy of HACCP certificates being presented to them.

      On a question from Mr Higgs, Ms Campbell explains that firstly any food producing, or processing facility must have a Certificate of Acceptability which relates to food hygiene and transport in line with Regulation R368 of 2018. The second level of protection refers to HACCP compliance and it is requested that any party aware or suspecting sorters, graders, processors or handlers of groundnuts not complying with any of the regulatory standards, to please forward the relevant information to either the local municipality, Ms Campbell or alternatively via the Chairperson for follow up.

   2. Aflatoxin analysis, proficiency and standards

      (Resolution 7.6.2.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

      The Chairperson mentioned that the Aflatoxin proficiency testing report of 27 July 2020, was distributed to the forum members for comments. The Chairperson thank the forum members for their contribution in this regard.

   3. FFA and PF analysis, proficiency and standards

      (Resolution 7.6.2.2 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

      The Chairperson mentioned that the proficiency testing foreseen in Resolution 7.6.2.2 was replaced by an internal investation by herself and the report was distributed to the forum members on 10 September 2020 (Annexure D).

      Furthermore, the Chairperson mentioned that there are new laboratories recently registered or in the process of being registered for FFA and PF analysis. Information are available on the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) website.

   4. Quality Standards for high versus low oleic groundnuts

      (Resolution 9.5.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

      The Chairperson mentioned that this point is addressed in the second part of Annexure D. Contact was made with European companies and it was determined that there seems to be no difference between grading standards for high versus low oleic groundnuts, but that high oleic product may be preferred due to the shelf life benefits.

   5. PPECB Aflatoxin

      Notice was taken of the presentation of Mr H Engelbrecht from PPECB in respect of Aflatoxin test results.

   6. Non-food Safety groundnut processors

      (Resolution 10.8.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

      The Chairperson mentioned that, due to time constraint, the matter was not discussed at the Workshop that took place on 16 October 2020 and refers to Ms Campbell's suggestion to report information regarding non-food safety compliant groundnut processors to herself (penny.campbell@health.gov.za) to be dealt with adequately. Alternatively reports may be sent via the Chairperson should the sender prefer to remain anonymous.

      Resolution:

      1. That information regarding the non-food safety compliant groundnut processors can be reported to Ms P Campbell (penny.campbell@health.gov.za) from the Department of Health.

         Chairperson
         Mr Keun

9. Research

   1. GAP Audits

      (Resolution 7.4.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes 28/07/2020)

      The Chairperson mentioned that the matter should remain on the agenda but be held in abeyance until the need arises for further action or consultation. Should any feedback regarding the proposed GAP guidelines be received in the meantime, appropriate action will be considered and communicated to the forum members.

      Resolution:

      1. That the matter be held in abeyance until further action or consultation is required through industry mandate.

         Chairperson
         Mr Keun

   2. LEAF Services

      (Resolution 7.2.1 the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

      The Chairperson mentioned that progress related to LEAF Services will be communicated to the forum members.

      Resolution:

      1. That progress related to LEAF Services, be communicated to the forum members.

         Chairperson
         Mr Keun

10. Additional matters

    1. Crop and Area Estimates

       The contents of the document "Crop and Area Estimates" included in the agenda as Annexure E were noted.

       Members commented on the need for rain in some production areas such as North West, areas in the Free State and Limpopo. Groundnuts are also facing increased competition from other profitable commodities such as soy, with cultivar specific seed availability also a major concern.

    2. SAGIS: General feedback and market information

       The contents of the document included in the agenda as Annexure F were noted.

       Notice was taken of the presentation of Mr Schultz in respect of the SAGIS, general feedback, and market information.

    3. Articles

       The contents of the articles included in the agenda as Annexure G were noted.

       The Chairperson reminded members to make use of the industry's website (www.opot.co.za). On the site access can also be gained to current and previous publications of the Oilseeds Focus.

11. Research and technology

    1. Feedback on Cultivar evaluation project

       Notice was taken of the presentation of the Chairperson in respect of the cultivar evaluation project.

       The Chairperson suggested that the results of the cultivar evaluation project be attached to the agenda of the next forum meeting.

       Resolution:

       1. That the results of the cultivar evaluation project will be attached to the agenda of the next forum meeting.

          Chairperson
          Mr Keun

    2. Collaboration and Support: ARC-Groundnut Section/Division

       (Resolution 9.2.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020 and Resolution 7.1.2.2.1 of the Oilseeds Advisory Committee minutes of 21/07/2020)

       The Chairperson mentioned that the matter was discussed during a meeting held on 17 September 2020 and also during the Workshop that took place on 16 October 2020.

       After discussion, it was decided that the detail in respect of the collaboration and support for the ARC-Groundnut Section/Division will be discussed within the smaller working group and feedback will be communicated to the forum members.

       Resolution:

       1. That feedback will be communicated to the forum members at the next meeting regarding the Collaboration and Support: ARC-Groundnut Section/Division.

          Chairperson
          Mr Keun

    3. Studies on the use of biocontrol agents on groundnuts to control Aspergillus spp and other soil pathogens, Prof M Laing, UKZN

       Mr Keun mentioned that during previous meetings it was suggested that Prof Laing be requested to write an article for publication in the Oilseed Focus as well as to do a presentation at the next Groundnut Forum meeting in respect of the research conducted.

       After discussion, it was decided to step off the matter and conclude it as finalised, due to fact that Prof Laing and his team experienced some difficulty in completing the project.

    4. Peanut Smut

       (Resolution 9.6.1 of the SA Groundnut Forum minutes of 28/07/2020)

       Notice was taken of the content of the documents regarding "Peanut Smut" attached as Annexure H to the agenda.

       The Chairperson mentioned that the discussion with the Department of Plant Health did not take place and request that the matter remains on the agenda.

       Resolution:

       1. That the matter regarding Peanut Smut remain on the agenda and that feedback be communicated to the forum members.

          Chairperson
          Mr Keun

    5. Sclerotinia in Groundnuts

       Notice was taken of the contents of the Web Study attached as Annexure I to the agenda.

12. Additional matters

    None.

13. Election of chairperson

    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 reappointed by unanimous vote.

    The Forum congratulated her on her election as Chairperson.

    Resolution:

    1. That Ms A Botha was duly re-elected as Chairperson for the next two (2) years.

       All

14. Meeting dates 2021

    The next meeting of the SA Groundnut forum is scheduled for 11 February 2021.

15. Adjournment

    There being no further business to discuss, the Chairperson wished all a blessed festive season and safe travels. The meeting was adjourned at 13h00.