Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned farmer, access to markets remains a crucial element for any agricultural enterprise. In this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track experts share advice on how to get into the right markets in South Africa.
Accessing the right market begins with sourcing good, quality seeds, according to Jacques Terblanche from Graceland Garlic. The reason he points to is simple: good quality product does much better on the market than that of a poorer quality.
“In producing good quality product, you have to take samples from the soil, the bulb and leaves from time to time and test them if you are unsure.
“You cannot get a good quality crop from compromised seeds. Make sure that you follow an approved and good fertilising and folio programme,” he advises.
The episode also features other specialist such as poultry farmer Jo-andra Gregory Cloete, hydroponics farmer Byron Booysen, and commercial rabbit farmer Daisy Moleko.
Understand who you market is
According to Moleko, getting to know your market is an essential next step.
“Check your market. [Establish] who will be your buyers, and after getting to know your buyers, then you can start planting, or [breed] your livestock. It’s of no use to start farming without you knowing who your market is,” she emphasises.
While it’s a norm to go for commercial and retail markets, Booysen advises farmers to not underestimate the power of local and informal markets.
For farmers who have trouble keeping up with the demand, Booysen offers helpful advice. “If you do not have enough produce from your side, you’re also able to buy from other smallholder farmers and to be able to establish markets.”
In the episode, the experts also unpack:
- How to leverage the agri-marketing platform to get recognition;
- Why building a relationship with other farmers is important; and more.
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
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ALSO READ: All you need to know to access the market
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