The council regulates the occupations of fresh produce, export and livestock

Fresh Produce Agent Rules Amendments

Rule amendments were drafted and submitted for comment by industry stakeholders by 20 May 2016. Depending on the comments that we receive, further amendments will be made, after which a meeting will be held to discuss the draft Rules.

We are also waiting for the Competition Commission to begin investigating whether certain market transactions (such as product reservation, late sales, secondary trading, etc.) should be incorporated in the amended Rules.

Livestock Agent Rules Amendments

Proposed amendments to the Rules were concluded and submitted for consideration to the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries on 27 January 2016.

Export Agent Rules Amendments

During the past years APAC has observed the need to more effectively regulate export agents. This need is mostly observed as a result of farmers’ complaints that APAC receives, but are unable to properly investigate and initiate disciplinary action where needed. The amendments were drafted within the limitation of the current Act and unfortunately still provides a limited scope for disciplinary action, however it will contribute and enhance the professionalism and ethical trading.

An inclusive proses was followed to identify recommended changes to the Rules and various meetings was held with the representing body for Export Agents, namely the Fresh Produce Exporters Forum (FPEF), as well as with various Export Agents. On 25 April 2016 the amended Rules will also published in the Government Gazette as well as the APAC website, in order to invite further public comments. Once the aforementioned process has been completed, the proposed amended Rules will be submitted to the Department for consideration and Gazetting.

Objective, Mission, Vision and Core Values

The objective of the council is to regulate the occupations of fresh produce, export and livestock agents and to maintain and enhance the status and dignity of those occupations and the integrity of persons practicing those occupations, according to section 9, Agricultural Produce Agents Act, 12 of 1992.

Mission

Fulfill our mandate under the Act

Protect against dishonest practices

Uphold our responsibility to maintain and enhance the occupations of fresh produce, export and livestock agents

Position of the Council to effectively contribute in the development and transformation of the agricultural sector

Vision

To be an innovative, supportive, proactive and responsive regulatory body

Core Values

Fairness

We will act with objectivity, empathy, integrity, prudence and transparency.

Attitude

We will be an ambitious, professional, passionate, supportive, reliable and dedicated workforce.

Flexibility

We will remain open to change and innovation.

Drive

We will be driven to deliver our objectives defined by the Act.

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