B.E.E put strain on farming exports

GAUTENG – South African farms deemed “too white” will no longer be able to export their produce to the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU), according to postings in the Government Gazette, the Johannesburg-based City Press newspaper reported.

Under the rules, farmers must meet specific Black economic empowerment targets to continue obtaining export permits. The guidelines will apply to agricultural businesses with a minimum annual turnover of R10 million ($534,000) or more. Milk, cream, butter, fruit, nuts, sugar, jam, fruit purée, fruit juices, yeast, table grapes and wine are among the products affected, according to the notice.