Johannesburg: South Africa has taken a fresh step to support its struggling sugar sector, with industry body SA Canegrowers backing the second phase of the Sugar Industry Masterplan signed by the government and key stakeholders to strengthen the livelihoods of over one million people dependent on the industry.
The agreement, signed by the government, growers, millers and major end-users such as retailers and food and beverage companies, seeks to stabilise the industry amid rising costs and growing competition from imports, Independent reported.
Speaking after the signing, SA Canegrowers Chairman Higgins Mdluli said the sector remains critical to the country’s economy, particularly in rural areas.
He said the industry faces increasing pressure from higher diesel and fertiliser costs, along with competition from subsidised sugar imports. In this context, the organisation has called for a fair tariff system to protect local producers and encourage the use of domestically produced sugar.
SA Canegrowers, which represents about 1,250 large-scale farmers and nearly 30,000 small-scale growers, said the new phase of the Masterplan reflects a joint commitment to strengthen the sector and support communities dependent on sugar production.
The plan also focuses on diversification as a key strategy for long-term sustainability. The industry is exploring opportunities in biofuels and sustainable aviation fuel, though progress will depend on investment and policy support.
Industry leaders said the renewed agreement is expected to help the sector adjust to current challenges while working towards a more stable and sustainable future.
