Johannesburg is set to host the World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) Conference from May 14-16, 2025, at the Sandton Convention Centre. The event will focus on Africa's role in the global fresh produce sector, examining issues like food security, climate change, and market modernization.
Organized by Joburg Market, the largest fresh produce market on the African continent, the conference, themed "The African Edition: Shaping the Future of Fresh Produce through Sustainability, Innovation and Inclusivity," aims to draw industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators from over 200 member countries. Key discussions will revolve around global agriculture value chains, Africa's export and import potential, and the integration of advanced technologies for market efficiency.
Joburg Market is central to South Africa's agricultural economy, reporting sales of approximately $590 million and processing 1.4 million tons of produce in the 2023/24 financial year. The market holds a 46% share of the national market and handles 600,000 transactions monthly, sourcing from over 8,000 producers and serving 14,000 daily buyers.
CEO Sello Makhubela noted Johannesburg's strategic position: "As South Africa's economic hub and home to Joburg Market, we are uniquely positioned to facilitate meaningful discussions on food security, sustainability, and the modernisation of wholesale markets."
The conference will cover logistics, cold chain solutions, and digital trading platforms, drawing insights from leading markets in France and Spain. Joburg Market seeks $170 million through public-private partnerships to expand trading space, improve cold storage, and diversify into agri-business and value-added services.
Joburg Market faces competition from private markets and retailers with advanced distribution centers. To address this, the market's strategy includes clean energy solutions, waste management systems, and advanced trading technologies to increase throughput by 20% and enhance profitability.
New agro-processing facilities are expected to boost sales volume, while digital solutions like cashless payment systems will streamline operations. The market also aims to support small-scale farmers, addressing supply-demand imbalances exacerbated by climate change.
Geopolitical tensions, including tariffs and restricted access to markets like the United States, present challenges. Makhubela emphasized the importance of resolving political tensions and fostering partnerships, especially with the American market.
The South African government encourages intra-African trade, and Joburg Market's Smart Market Strategy aligns with these efforts. While some countries maintain import restrictions, broader initiatives aim to facilitate open borders.
Joburg Market's modernization plans face hurdles, with the $170 million capitalization program still under review. "This is a ripe opportunity for investment with good returns," Makhubela said.
Source: IOL