North West Legislature Holds Public Hearings on Updated Agricultural Product Standards Bill [B15B – 2021]

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Public Hearings Scheduled for Agricultural Product Standards Bill

The Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Agriculture and Rural Development of the North West Provincial Legislature has announced public hearings on the Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Bill [B15B – 2021]. These hearings are scheduled for Friday, 22 September 2023 and will occur at four separate venues: Barolong Boo Ratlou Ba Ga Seitshiro Community Hall in Khunwana, Potchefstroom Agricultural College, Vryburg Banquet Hall, and Bokamoso Community Hall in Madibeng. The hearings will also be available for live streaming on the North West Provincial Legislature’s Facebook page and additional social media platforms like YouTube Channel, allowing for widespread public participation.

Key Objectives of the Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Bill

The purpose of the Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Bill [B15B – 2021] is to revise the Agricultural Product Standards Act of 1990 by implementing several crucial updates. First, the bill aims to introduce new definitions and replace outdated ones, ensuring the legislation stays current. Second, the bill provides for auditing of product management control systems, a necessary measure for guaranteeing quality and safety of agricultural products, both of which are essential factors in maintaining consumer trust and market competitiveness.

An essential feature of the Amendment Bill is the provision that allows assignees to establish tariffs on a cost-recovery basis. This change ensures that the financial responsibility of upholding product standards is not only borne by the government and taxpayers but is also shared among various stakeholders. This adjustment is a crucial step toward a more sustainable and financially viable agricultural sector.

Additional Provisions and Stakeholder Participation in Public Hearings

The bill also contains further provisions empowering the Minister to establish regulations regarding audit and management control systems. This additional authority ensures better oversight and governance of agricultural product standards, allowing the system to remain strong and adaptable to the constantly evolving global market.

To guarantee thorough and informative public hearings, relevant stakeholders have been invited to attend. These include representatives from the agricultural sector, government officials, and other interested parties. Their participation and input will be essential in shaping the final version of the Amendment Bill, ensuring it effectively addresses the needs and concerns of all those involved.

Namhla Luhabe, Deputy Manager of Communications for the North West Provincial Legislature, has invited members of the media to attend the public hearings. This invitation highlights the importance of transparency and openness in the legislative process, guaranteeing that the public stays well-informed about the proceedings and outcomes of the public hearings. For additional information, Namhla Luhabe can be reached at 079 527 0628 or via email at namhla@nwpl.org.za.

Impact of the Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Bill on the Agricultural Sector

The Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Bill [B15B – 2021] represents a considerable advancement for the agricultural sector in the North West Province and South Africa as a whole. Its provisions seek to fortify the agricultural product standards system, ensuring its effectiveness and financial sustainability. The upcoming public hearings will offer valuable insights and feedback from stakeholders, further refining the Amendment Bill and making certain it is well-prepared to tackle the challenges faced by the agricultural sector in today’s world.

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