These developments occur against a backdrop of global challenges, including the United States imposing a 30% tariff on South African agricultural products.
The FARM P3 pilot will directly benefit up to 4,000 smallholder farmers, providing them with new opportunities to strengthen production and market access.
With needs reaching 2.2 million tonnes, imports mainly from Asia and particularly India, have made it possible to satisfy consumers’ appetite.
Producers who had invested heavily in pesticides, fertilizers, labour, and rented land said they expected better returns, only to be disappointed by low market prices.
The programme is set to train approximately 400 bakers within its first year, with plans for sustained annual growth.