South Africa’s abundant biodiversity presents a golden opportunity to cultivate a thriving essential and vegetable oils industry. This was said by the Chief Director of Technical Infrastructure at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Dr Tshenge Demana. Dr Demana made these remarks during his address at the 3rd  Southern African Essential and Vegetable Oils Conference which took place in Pretoria, today.

Dr Demana emphasised that by harnessing this potential, the country can drive industrialisation, create jobs, and stimulate economic development.

He outlined that the potential of this growing industry has been demonstrate, and in order to grow this sector, the South African industry stakeholders recently identified various needs that would add impetus to the growth of the sector.

“These needs relate to production, namely volume, quality, and innovation, the procurement of raw materials and knowledge of regulatory requirements and internationally recognised testing facilities,” said Dr Demana.

He listed some of the challenges facing the sector. These include production volumes, quality, innovation, raw material procurement, packaging, regulatory compliance, market access, pricing, distribution, and access to finance.

“It is in this context that the Global Quality and Standards Programme (GQSP) initiated a programme that is species-based to address challenges highlighted above. The first rose geranium forum that focus on increased production of good quality geranium oil has been established. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort between government, industry, and development partners. We are committed to working closely with all stakeholders to create an enabling environment for the growth of this promising industry,” said Dr Demana.

The United Nations Undustrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) representative for Southern Africa, Dr Diego Masera, announced that the organisation aim to strengthen quality infrastructure institutions and service providers to enhance the compliance capacities of the private sector, particularly small and medium enterprises.

“Quality and standards are critical not only for increasing global trade and commerce, but also for boosting regional trade within the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area. As we gather here today, I am confident that our discussions and deliberations will pave the way for substantial advancements in the essential and vegetable oils sector. Together we can build a more sustainable and propserous future for South Africa,” he said.

The Chief Director of Technical Infrastructure at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Dr Tshenge Demana speaking at the 3rd  Southern African Essential and Vegetable Oils Conference in Pretoria.

For media enquiries and interview requests:
Bongani Lukhele – Director: Media Relations
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E-mail: BLukhele@thedtic.gov.za
Issued by: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic)
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