ArgiSA warns fuel shortages, price hikes to impact food security

With a significant diesel price hike looming, the agricultural industry is concerned about the impact on food security.

AgriSA CEO Johann Kotze explained that a fuel shortage or a major price hike would impact the affordability and availability of food. 

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He said the impact would be felt throughout the entire value chain, from farmers to consumers.

"It's not just the farmer who's going to suffer. It's the value chain that's utilised to eventually get the food on the plate of the end consumer that's going to bear the consequences of a higher increase or a possible increase in the fuel price."

Kotze highlighted the importance of timely harvesting, especially of soybeans and maize, which are crucial in South Africa. 

He noted that if farmers don’t harvest at the right time, they risk losing volumes, which could be detrimental to the entire food system.

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Kotze added that agriculture and agribusiness are working together to approach the fuel industry and government to discuss possible contingency plans and interventions. 

To listen to Kotze in conversation with 702’s John Perlman, use the audio player below: