ZZ2 Takes On Cape Town Port Delays: A Fresh Approach to Challenges

By Diane Silcock

ZZ2, a prominent agricultural group from South Africa with over a century of experience, is on the rise, aiming to enhance its fresh produce exports. They’ve recently gained access to new markets in countries like China, India, and Japan. However, the ongoing challenges at Cape Town’s port might hinder their plans.

South African Fresh Produce Exports: Varied Farming Regions and Crop Diversity

The company predominantly operates in the Limpopo province, alongside areas in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, North West province, Gauteng, and even Namibia. Their farms cultivate a wide range of products, including avocados, tomatoes, apples, pears, onions, mangoes, litchis, cherries, almonds, and Medjool dates.

Port Issues in Cape Town Affect Export Timelines for Avocados

In 2025, ZZ2 anticipates producing around 33,000 tons of avocados, primarily for markets in the UK, Europe, China, India, Japan, and possibly the USA. In a recent discussion, marketing manager Clive Garrett highlighted the severe port issues affecting their exports.

“For about six years now, we’ve faced challenges with the ports, but in the last two years, it’s become critical. Our avocados are taking over 40 days to reach Europe. If we can’t secure reliable logistics for exporting, we won’t expand our avocado plantations, leading to waste,” Garrett explained.

He emphasized that these ongoing obstacles have cost the industry billions and damaged South Africa’s reputation in the global arena.

“Agriculture has the potential to create jobs, and South Africa needs this. We could expand, given that the markets exist, but that depends on resolving logistical issues,” he added.

South African Fresh Produce Exports: 2025 Harvest and Global Expansion Plans

Garrett noted that the 2025 harvest looks promising, with exports starting in late February. Although some improvements at the Cape Town port have been reported, there remains skepticism about potential delays. As a result, they’re considering exporting avocados from Durban and Gqeberha.

“Traditionally, our primary markets for avocados have been the UK and the European Union. We’ve been collaborating closely with the South African Avocado Growers’ Association and the Department of Agriculture to penetrate new markets. The Department has been instrumental in opening doors to China, India, and Japan, and starting in 2025, we aim to export significant volumes to these regions. We also hope to enter the USA market this year,” Garrett explained.

Domestic Market and Retail Performance

On the local front, ZZ2 recently received the Shoprite Group’s Supplier of the Year Award 2024 in the Fruit and Vegetable Producer category. These awards recognize the valuable contributions suppliers make to the group’s success.

ZZ2 is known for its consistent supply, high-quality produce, and exceptional service. The company’s joint venture, N’Voy, manages all of ZZ2’s retail operations.

What distinguishes ZZ2 from its competitors is its ability to offer a wide range of produce, from staple items like tomatoes to exotic cherries. Their year-round tomato crops are grown sustainably, adapting to different climates across regions.

Currently, ZZ2 packs and markets around 230,000 tons of fresh produce annually, establishing it as one of the largest firms in its field. Their brand is well-recognized both locally and internationally, symbolizing quality and reliability, and they are committed to providing nutritious, affordable food every day of the year.