North West producers concerned about price reduction

Farmers in Northwest are concerned about the recently announced reduction in producer prices. At a producers meeting hosted by the MPO Northwest in Lichtenburg, several farmers explained that they have recently survived a heavy drought with failed crops. While they still farm profitably, they experienced two bad years during which debt increased and they will not be able to absorb lower producer prices. At the meeting was Dr Chris van Dijk, MPO CEO, Dr Koos Coetzee, economist, Bertus van Heerden, head of Agri Inspec and Philip Swart, manager MPO member services. Dr Van Dijk gave an overview of situation and explained the options available for farmers to improve their efficiency and profitability. Dr Coetzee gave a presentation on current and future trends in the dairy industry and Bertus van Heerden explained the functions of Agri Inspec in preventing fraudulent imports. Philip Swart gave an overview of MPO membership numbers in the various regions.