The South African market is very competitive and vibrant. It comprises of both large and small scale agricultural and processing firms (business entities). Food is readily available and there is significant number of producers and major Suppliers able to provide food commodities in the country.  Suppliers have locations for collection of commodities direct from farms and production facilities.  Agriculture farmers and suppliers are governed by the Department of Agriculture forest and fisheries.  Milled commodities particularly maize is available in every market.  Most millers have both a processing plant and have commodity storage facilities. Fortification is widespread and there is a national policy. Maize is the most important grain crop in South Africa, being both the major feed grain and the staple food for the majority of the South African population. About 60% of maize produced in South Africa is white and the other 40% is yellow maize. Yellow maize is mostly used for animal feed production while the white maize is primarily for human consumption. Maize is the second large crop produced in South Africa after sugar cane. The maize industry is important to the economy both as an employer and earner of foreign currency because of its multiplier effects. This is because maize also serves as a raw material for manufactured products such as paper, paint, textiles, medicine and food. Other commodities produced include Pulses, oilveg, Super Cereal plus and RUSF.

Main Food Suppliers

Bulk products are readily available in South Africa from a number of both local and international suppliers. These products range from Ready to eat nutritious items to grains, processed and semi processed food products. Most companies have capacity to deliver 6 weeks after engaging into a contract with buyer’s. Here below find a list of Major suppliers and their particular locations

The government, through Department of Agriculture forest and fisheries requires all food processors and their products to be ISO certified to meet international standards. Other private bodies who are allowed to inspect and certify products are Intertek,SGS, Chemiphar, Bureau Veritas, among others

Generic country information can be located from sources which are regularly maintained and reflect current facts and figures. For a general overview of country data related to the service and supply sectors, please consult the following sources:

The Observatory of Economic Complexity – MIT (OEC):  (http://atlas.media.mit.edu/en/)

Disclaimer: Inclusion of company information in the LCA does not imply any business relationship between the supplier and WFP / Logistics Cluster, and is used solely as a determinant of services, and capacities.

Please note: WFP / Logistics Cluster maintain complete impartiality and are not in a position to endorse, comment on any company's suitability as a reputable service provider.