Nearly two years on, the grain industry is still waiting for the revised wheat tariff to be finalised, leaving wheat farmers under severe financial pressure.

After applying to the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (Itac) in June 2024, Grain SA and the South African Cereals and Oilseeds Trade Association (Sacota) took legal action over delays in implementing the wheat tariff.

Wheat producers can no longer absorb endless delays with tariffs. Photo: Pexel.com

“Producers cannot absorb endless delays while competing against countries that actively protect their agricultural sectors. Policy delays in volatile markets have real economic consequences for food security and rural employment,” said Grain SA chairperson Richard Krige.

In a formal letter of demand, legal representatives acting on behalf of Grain SA and Sacota gave Itac, and the ministers of trade, industry and competition and of finance until 16:00 on Monday (1/6) to provide a final status report on the implementation of the revised tariff.

Grain SA and Sacota emphasised that legal action was a last resort. For months, they repeatedly asked Itac for even basic updates on the application’s progress, but the industry received no meaningful response.

Grain SA and Sacota emphasised that legal action was not taken lightly. Photo: Pexel.com

The letter of demand also stated that the wheat industry is under strain and that ongoing administrative silence has left the sector with no option but to take legal action.

The industry remains committed to fair, rules-based trade, but says the ongoing administrative silence is causing measurable harm to South African wheat production.

OFM Agri/Isabel van Tonder cvdw

• Deel jou landbounuus: agri@ofm.co.za.