South African Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms Tina Joemat-Pettersson held a bilateral meeting with the German Minister of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection, Ms Ilse Aigner, today.
The two ministers had discussions on issues relating to current agricultural and trade policies, world food security and cooperation in vocational training.
Last week, Germany made an undertaking to increase trade in Africa, and South Africa in particular. South Africa exports close to R3 billion in fresh citrus fruit annually to the European Union. Germany is one of the major markets for SA citrus in the off-season of EU producers which includes mainly Spain, Italy and Greece. Approximately 40% of SA citrus exports go to the European Union (EU).
The meeting culminated in the signing of a statement of intent regarding cooperation in the field of initial and continuing vocational training for favourable economic development of an agricultural holding and for providing the population with safe food.
Minister Joemat-Pettersson highlighted some of these issues, among others South African citrus exports to the EU. South Africa mainly exports wines, paper and processed fruits and vegetables including fresh grapes and other products to Germany.
As part of the trade partnership between the two countries, South Africa is looking at an agreement for the protection of Geographical Indications (GIs) with regard to agricultural products such as cheese, meat products, olive oil, etc. The EU has a well-developed GI protection system. South Africa has just started with products like rooibos and honeybush.
To date Germany has signed the following agreements with South Africa:
- Declaration of Intent to Cooperation in the fields of Assistance to Cooperative, Legislation on Cooperation and Assistance to Directorate Business and Industrial Development signed 10 October 1999.
- Agreement with SA Regarding the Development of Advisory Services in the Northern Province signed 10 December 1999.
- A Cooperation Agreement was signed between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Republic of South Africa on Cooperation in the field of Veterinary Affairs on 26 September 2008
- A Declaration of Intent on Cooperation in the field of initial and continuing Vocational Training was signed 26 September 2008.
Says Minister Joemat-Pettersson: “South Africa’s partnership with Germany has historical roots. Moreover, our partnership since the advent of democracy has grown from strength to strength. Todays bilateral will enhance the skills of our officials. This has major benefits not only for the department but for the general South African public. We welcome this move and look forward to even more investment opportunities.”
For further information please contact:
Palesa Mokomele
Spokesperson for the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Tel: 012 319 7876 (PTA)
Fax: 012 319 6681 (PTA)
Tel: 021 467 4502 (CPT)
Fax: 021 465 6550 (CPT)
Cell: 082 904 1908
E-mail: PalesaM@daff.gov.za
