Your 44 Cents at Work for the Industry

Our Five Pillars of Impact

Every 44 cents contributed to SAPPA fuels meaningful work across the pecan industry. Here’s how your levy drives lasting impact through our Five Pillars:

1. Market Development

We actively build awareness and demand for South African pecans—both locally and globally.

• Consumer Engagement: Through Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms, we educate consumers about the health benefits of pecans, how to store them, and how to include them in everyday meals. Our goal is to make pecans a staple in households.
• Expanding International Demand: South African pecans are beloved in China, and we’re working hard to strengthen these trade relationships. We attend trade shows, collaborate with importers and retailers, and promote innovative product development.
• Advertising in China: We’re launching a major campaign on key Chinese social media platforms to make South African pecans a household name.
• Exploring New Markets: We’re actively pursuing new opportunities for premium pecan kernels by organizing trade missions, sending samples, and initiating discussions with processors, exporters, and buyers in alternative markets.
• Trade Advocacy: We regularly engage with government and trade bodies to secure better trade tariffs, remove barriers to market access, and protect the interests of South African pecan growers now and in the future.

2. Information & Communication

Better data. Smarter decisions. Stronger farms.

• Benchmarking Platform: We’re launching a national benchmarking program to provide producers with actionable insights—allowing farms to compare performance, identify opportunities for growth, and build resilience.
• Information Sharing: We track the latest trends, production statistics, regulatory updates, and best practices, and share them with the industry in real time.
• Community Engagement: Our communication network fosters a culture of learning—where we share success stories, learn from each other’s challenges, and issue timely warnings about risks or threats to the industry.
• Accessible Resources: Our newsletters, WhatsApp groups, and expanding online resource library make sure all members have timely access to valuable, practical information. We aim to make knowledge-sharing interactive—welcoming your feedback and helping us shape future priorities together.

3. Transformation

We’re committed to building a more inclusive and equitable industry.

• We currently support 82 successful transformation farmers, equipping them with knowledge, mentorship, and tools to become sustainable, independent producers.
• Our approach focuses on long-term success—supporting not just productivity, but profitability and resilience.

4. Research & Innovation

We use science to solve industry challenges and drive progress.

• With 26 active research projects and partnerships with three leading South African universities, we are tackling real-world issues—from pest and disease management to improving post-harvest quality.
• Our research is aimed at delivering practical solutions that benefit all growers, now and in the future.

5. Technical Support

On-the-ground support when and where it matters most.

• Our experienced technical team works directly with farmers—identifying challenges early, offering expert guidance, and helping implement best practices.
• We take a proactive approach to problem-solving, ensuring that farmers are supported not only during crises but in building long-term success.