According to Musa Dlamini, Regional Director at Workforce Staffing, Citrus farmers are facing a combination of obstacles, from logistical hurdles to unpredictable weather patterns and the introduction of a new national minimum wage. Dlamini goes on to say that these factors pose a significant threat to the profitability of citrus farmers, who are now seeking innovative ways to navigate these turbulent times. When asked about the new minimum wage and what makes it hard for farmers to keep up with it, Dlamini explains that with input costs rising above inflation, the minimum wage increased from R25,42 in 2023 to R27.58 per hour. This growth is detrimental since price pressure from the market forces prices to either decrease or stay the same. The industry faces challenges due to illegal migrant workers and rising electricity costs. When asked about illegal migrant workers and why locals cannot be employed, Dlamini explains The law allows for limited numbers of foreign nationals to be employed. Such employees must have valid work permits based on the rare skill they have which Cannot be easily be replaced by a local worker. Dlamini explains that one possible solution that is gaining traction is the partnership with Temporary Employment Services (TES) providers. Where these partners can help citrus farmers manage their labour requirements effectively, ensuring cost-efficiency while maintaining compliance with labour, safety, and fair trade regulations. Dlamini suggests partnering with Temporary Employment Services (TES) providers can assist citrus farmers in managing labour requirements effectively, ensuring cost-efficiency, compliance with labour, safety, and fair trade regulations.   And ends by saying Citrus farmers must consider all options to maintain the long-term viability of their businesses in the face of these growing obstacles. By collaborating with TES providers, citrus farmers can offload administrative burdens such as background checks, site training, and HR management, allowing them to focus on their core competency – farming.

Journalist: Tasha-Ree Kella
Email: tashakella13@gmail.com