Agro-processors in Gauteng say government support could unlock greater opportunities for growth in the sector. The provincial government has identified agro-processing as a key driver for creating jobs, innovation and economic inclusion.

This week, it held the 2025 Agro-processing Convention and Expo in Midrand, under the theme “Driving Inclusive Growth Through Agro-processing”.

Agriculture and Rural Development MEC in Gauteng Vuyiswa Ramokgopa says studies have shown that an increase in agro-processing output of just 2% could yield a 10% rise in employment in the manufacturing sector.

It is always so wonderful to meet members of Gauteng’s agricultural sector!

There are vast quantities of potential, innovation, and brilliance in our province, and it is crucial that we unleash it if we are to position Gauteng as a world leader in agro-processing. The Gauteng… pic.twitter.com/j1pHrq7ADY

— Vuyiswa Ramokgopa (@VuyiswaRamokgop) July 3, 2025

The process of transforming raw agricultural products has come under the spotlight as the Gauteng government looks to boost the provincial economy and by extension the national economy.

“I mean investment goes where it grows. People will invest in whatever can grow and Gauteng, as I’m saying it is quite strategically positioned in terms of our national position quite centrally. But also we have links even to the African continent, our neighbours in the SADC region and otherwise. We have OR Tambo International and various airports through which we can we can ship food out, I’m  simply saying the logistics, the industrial capabilities are largely here.”

On the ground, small and micro agro-processors say while they note government’s ambitions, the reality is more complex. Manufacturers of a bottled chunky chilli relish, Tshepiso Manyoha, says the compliance in food safety is very costly, while access to markets also presents its own challenges.

An initial R100 million fund was announced at the two-day event. CEO of the National Empowerment Fund Mziwabantu Dayimani says 30% of the fund will include a grant component allowing support for businesses regarded as the ‘missing middle.’

“So we are actually making sure that we’re creating more manufacturing capacity at the grassroots level in townships and within the development areas in the country. The  intention is to actually grow it. So this is just the beginning. It’s in line with our transformation fund vision, we want to create a R20 billion fund per annum. So we’re starting small with these kinds of initiatives.”