The Sunflower and Soybean Specialist Working Group of Grain SA plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of South Africa’s oilseed industry. Comprising producers, researchers, economists, and industry stakeholders, the group serves as a collaborative platform to address challenges, share insights, and drive innovation across the sunflower and soybean value chains.
Purpose of the working group
The primary purpose of the working group is to:
- facilitate industry collaboration across the sunflower and soybean industries;
- coordinate research and development efforts to improve crop yields, disease resistance, and production efficiency;
- monitor and respond to market dynamics, ensuring competitiveness in local and international markets;
- advise on policy and regulatory matters, including biosecurity, breeding rights, and trade protocols; and
- promote knowledge sharing through regular meetings, publications, and stakeholder engagement.
Key focus areas
1. Research and innovation
The group actively supports and monitors research initiatives, particularly in the following areas:
- Sclerotinia stem rot: The group coordinates national research and evaluates control methods.
- Biosecurity threats: They address diseases like purple stain in soybeans and stress spots in sunflowers.
- Breeding and technology: The group oversees the breeding and technology levy and evaluates new cultivars.
2. Market intelligence
Regular updates are provided on:
- local and international market trends;
- derived prices and parity levels; and
- location differential models to improve market efficiency.
3. Production and inputs
The group evaluates:
- input cost benchmarks and production budgets;
- seed availability and pricing trends; and
- regulatory frameworks such as the Plant Breeders’ Rights Act.
4. Policy and trade
The working group engages with:
- export protocols, such as the soybean export agreement with China; and
- regulatory bodies to streamline product registrations.
5. Industry development and communication
Initiatives include:
- the Grow for Gold yield competition to encourage excellence;
- contributions to SA Graan/Grain magazine; and
- stakeholder feedback to address regional and national concerns.
Conclusion
This working group exemplifies a proactive, data-driven approach to agricultural development. By fostering collaboration between science, policy, and practice, it ensures that South Africa’s sunflower and soybean industries remain resilient, competitive, and sustainable.
