SIZA Connect Newsletter

There has been some confusion regarding their classification under labour regulations, particularly in certain packhouses and processing facilities. The key question is whether a business falls under agricultural regulations, specifically Sectoral Determination 13 (SD13), or is governed solely by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA). Understanding this distinction is crucial.

Suppliers can apply to SIZA for a bridging letter following a newly conducted audit, i.e. after the auditor’s onsite visit so that the risk of the site can be determined. This allows suppliers to continue supplying markets while they work on their corrective actions. The bridging letter serves as a temporary solution, ensuring operations can proceed smoothly while outstanding compliance measures are addressed during the peak seasonal period.

South Africa is no different as the global expectation grows to ensure ethically and environmentally sustainable value chains. In line with the value-chain due diligence requirements, all processing facilities and packhouses must comply with the businesses for which they process or pack products. The expectation is that all facilities, no matter how big or small, must have a valid social and/or environmental audit to allow for transparency and credibility of the supply chain.

As SIZA is a multi-sector agricultural solution for South African suppliers, the MySIZA platform allows for a diverse subscription base and a detailed breakdown of commodities. Over the last 10 years, the following can be mentioned according to continuous improvement and growth.

In line with legislation and environmental best practice, it’s crucial to prevent chemicals from entering non-target areas of a farm to protect the environment, public health, and biodiversity. Harmful chemicals can contaminate soil, water, and air, impacting crops and nearby ecosystems, and the effects are compounded when these chemicals enter non-target areas. Prevention is better than cure, and measures to prevent harmful chemicals from entering non-target areas will ensure continued sustainable farming practices.

Establishing environmental standards that align with South African laws is essential in the pursuit of sustainable farming practices. One notable practice that has garnered significant attention is cover cropping. This traditional agricultural technique has been utilised for centuries, originating from ancient farming methods where farmers planted specific crops during the off-season to protect and enrich the soil. Cover cropping was employed to prevent soil erosion, improve soil fertility, and maintain the health of the land between main crop cycles.

South Africa’s upcoming G20 leadership in 2025 will focus on promoting environmentally friendly farming through the Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land (PDAL) Act. At the World Economic Forum 2025, Agricultural Minister John Steenhuisen announced that the PDAL Bill had been finalised and was awaiting President Ramaphosa’s approval. The Bill was passed on January 29th, 2025, and applies to all agricultural land in South Africa.

The SIZA Remedy Programme is designed to help producers address non-conformances and improve their compliance efforts with expert guidance. By connecting suppliers to approved professionals, the programme fosters tailored solutions that meet SIZA standards. Learn how the Remedy Programme promotes continuous improvement and operational excellence in South Africa’s agricultural sector.

Navigating compliance and sustainability tools can be confusing, but knowing their purpose is vital. While SIZA focuses on ethical and environmental compliance verified through audits, Sherpa serves as a strategic tool for tracking and improving sustainability. By leveraging both, producers can meet compliance demands and enhance long-term sustainability. Explore their key differences and how they complement each other.

SIZA’s Audit Oversight Programme goes beyond checking boxes, offering a comprehensive system to support producers in continuous improvement. From monitoring non-conformances to reviewing audit quality and providing hands-on assistance, this programme helps suppliers improve operations while maintaining global compliance standards. Discover how SIZA is fostering sustainability through collaboration and proactive solutions.