The Premier’s mission is geared to benefit Mpumalanga’s International Fresh Produce Market (MIFPM), the first large-scale market in the province.
The Market would be operational before the end of this year.
As agriculture contributes significantly to economic growth and job creation in the Province, Premier Ndlovu said the aim of the trip is to establish a strong foundation to realize and achieve the goals of this enterprise.
“We are targeting the Chinese markets because they are reputable international trade institutions for the export of agricultural commodities. We will visit cities with a growing population and strong Gross Domestic Products (GDP). It has the same values and goals we have to ensure the Fresh Produce Market would become a game-changer in the food chain industry,” Ndlovu said.
He believes the MIFPM would significantly contribute towards the transformation of the South African farming sector.
This includes farmer training on how to obtain trading licenses across international markets.
This delegation to China includdx the provincial MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs, Nomphumelelo Hlophe, as well as senior Provincial Government officials.
The trip will see the delegation visit the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation for Trade Investment in Longnan City.
It is renowned for traditional medicine, mining and olive oil production. The Tianshui Inland Port is a model for modern agricultural development.
“This timely visit must be seen in context of the 7th administration determination to reduce unemployment and poverty in Mpumalanga.
It comes at a time when this administration is on a quest to drive an inclusive growth and job creation programme and to reduce poverty.
It is envisaged that 1500 job opportunities will be created at the Farmers’ Market, while 1400 farmers across the province will benefit once it is in operation,” he said
