The Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC) has recently taken disciplinary steps against three fresh produce market agencies that have violated the Agricultural Produce Agents Act 12 of 1992.
These agencies have been de-registered at APAC, have ceased to exist and APAC urges farmers who might have outstanding claims against these agencies, to register a claim for losses incurred against the Fresh Produce Agents Fidelity Fund.
The sanctioned agencies are Wenpro KZN and Squires & Sons Market Agency.
The Agricultural Produce Agents Council is a statutory body that regulates the activities of fresh produce, export and livestock agents. APAC is mandated to call market agencies before a disciplinary tribunal, which may order sanctions in the form of a fine, revocation of licences or even institution of criminal procedures in the case of fraud or theft.
In addition, disciplinary hearings were held against Matlotsama Market Agency, Egoly Fresh Agency, Ca-tu Fresh Agency and Metro Market Agency. These agencies didn’t follow the requisite submission of financial and reconciliation records, or other documentation as prescribed by the legislation that governs the activities of market agents.
APAC works closely with the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum and legally all exporters are also required to be registered with APAC. The regulatory process regarding exporters is somewhat more complicated than that involving market agents functioning domestically.
The fresh produce industry submits nominations of candidates for APAC’s Board to the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development. The Board represents local agencies, exporters as well as the public. The statutory council receives no government funding.
The legislation that governs the activities and mandate of APAC is currently in the process of being adapted to a changing environment and to accommodate new developments and challenges over the coming years.
Francois Knowles
Registrar: Agricultural Produce Agents Council
Tel: +27 11 894 3680
Email: [email protected]
www.apacweb.org.za
