
The South African government has been actively supporting the country's poultry industry, with a focus on increasing production and ensuring food security. This support is provided through the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (dtic) and its development finance institution, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). One notable example is the financial assistance provided to Baramakama Poultry, a family-owned business that received R50 million to expand its operations, leading to increased capacity, job creation, and a stronger position in the market. The government's efforts also extend to the Black Industrialists Programme, which aims to enhance the participation of Black Industrialists in the poultry sector and address challenges like feed production and market access. Additionally, the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) plays a crucial role in advocating for the industry's interests and promoting sustainable practices. While progress has been made, there are calls for further government intervention, including tax breaks, crop insurance, and support for small-scale farmers, to ensure the industry's resilience and growth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Financial support | R50 million |
| Source of support | Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and its development finance institution, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) |
| Aim of support | To accelerate the quantitative and qualitative increase and participation of Black Industrialists in the South African economy, selected industrial sectors and value chains |
| Result of support | Expansion of operations, increase in carrying capacity, creation of new jobs |
| Feed production support | Increase supply in targeted areas and reduce costs |
| Tax breaks | On diesel and electricity |
| Policy changes | Provide crop insurance for small-scale farmers |
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What You'll Learn
- The South African government provides financial support to the tune of R50 million to the chicken industry
- This support is part of the Black Industrialists Programme to increase the participation of black-owned companies
- The government support cuts across the value chain, including feed production, hatcheries, abattoirs, chick rearing, and processing
- The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) has proposed zero-rating specific chicken products to battle food insecurity
- The government should provide tax breaks on diesel and electricity and remove red tape to facilitate solar installations

The South African government provides financial support to the tune of R50 million to the chicken industry
The South African government has demonstrated its commitment to bolstering the country's poultry industry by providing substantial financial support. This is evident in the case of Baramakama Poultry, a family-owned business that received R50 million in funding from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) and its development finance institution, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). This support was channelled through the Black Industrialists Programme, which aims to increase the participation and success of black-owned enterprises in the South African economy, including key sectors like the poultry industry.
The financial backing from the government has had a transformative impact on Baramakama Poultry. The company has been able to expand its infrastructure significantly, adding five new automated chicken houses and a modern packing station. This expansion has more than doubled their capacity, enabling them to house 280,000 hens, a substantial increase from the previous 100,000. Additionally, the expanded operations have led to the creation of 40 new jobs, with a notable focus on youth and women's employment.
The success of Baramakama Poultry showcases the positive outcomes that can be achieved through government intervention in the poultry industry. The company's CEO, Moloko, acknowledges the crucial role of government support, stating that it has elevated their standing in the industry. However, Moloko also emphasizes the need for comprehensive support across the value chain to ensure the meaningful transformation of the industry and enhance food security in South Africa. This includes addressing feed production, hatcheries, abattoirs, chick rearing, processing, and market access.
The South African government's efforts to support the poultry industry extend beyond direct financial assistance. The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has played a pivotal role in this regard. In 2019, the IDC commissioned a comprehensive report on grain pricing, production, and cost reduction strategies for the poultry industry. The report recognized the importance of maize and soya, which constitute about 70% of poultry feed costs. It recommended partnerships between the IDC, Grain SA, and the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) to increase supply and reduce costs. Additionally, the report advocated for tax breaks on diesel and electricity, the removal of red tape for solar installations, and crop insurance for small-scale farmers.
Moving forward, the South African government and industry associations like SAPA are optimistic about the future of the poultry sector. SAPA, in collaboration with the Association of Meat Importers and Exporters South Africa (AMIE SA), has proposed initiatives to enhance the industry's sustainability and address food insecurity. These include the removal of value-added tax (VAT) on certain chicken products and adapting to U.S. tariffs. By combining financial support for individual businesses with industry-wide strategic initiatives, the South African government is fostering a vibrant and resilient poultry sector that contributes to economic growth, employment, and food security.
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This support is part of the Black Industrialists Programme to increase the participation of black-owned companies
The South African government has provided support to the country's poultry industry through the Black Industrialists Programme, which aims to increase the participation of black-owned companies in the economy and specific sectors, including the poultry value chain. This support has been provided to Baramakama Poultry, a family-owned egg-laying chicken company located in Molote City, North West. The company received R50 million in financial assistance from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) and its development finance institution, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), as a part of the Black Industrialists Programme.
This financial support has enabled Baramakama Poultry to significantly expand its operations. They have added five new automated chicken houses and a modern packing station, increasing their carrying capacity from 100,000 hens to 280,000. The expansion has also led to the creation of 40 new jobs, with a focus on employing young people and women. Today, the company operates 24 hours a day and produces an average of 225,000 eggs per day at full capacity.
The success of Baramakama Poultry highlights the impact of the South African government's support for black-owned businesses in the poultry industry. The company's CEO, Moloko, acknowledges the value of this support, stating that it has made them a recognisable and important player in the industry. However, Moloko also emphasises the need for continued and comprehensive government support across the value chain to ensure the meaningful transformation of the industry and enhance food security in the country. This includes support in feed production, hatcheries, abattoirs, chick rearing, processing, and market access.
The South African government's interventions in the poultry industry are not limited to the Black Industrialists Programme. There have been recommendations for increased government support for the grain industry, which indirectly impacts poultry production. Maize and soya beans, the primary components of poultry feed, account for about 70% of the cost of rearing a chicken. By providing tax breaks, crop insurance, and safety nets for farmers affected by natural disasters, the government can reduce costs for poultry farmers and increase local feed production. Additionally, the government has partnered with organisations like Grain SA and SAPA (South African Poultry Association) to explore ways to increase supply and reduce costs in the industry. These efforts demonstrate the South African government's commitment to supporting the poultry industry and ensuring food security in the country.
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The government support cuts across the value chain, including feed production, hatcheries, abattoirs, chick rearing, and processing
The South African government's support for the poultry industry cuts across the value chain, encompassing various aspects such as feed production, hatcheries, abattoirs, chick rearing, and processing. This comprehensive approach aims to bring about meaningful transformation in the industry and enhance the role of Black Industrialists in ensuring food security in the country.
In terms of feed production, the government, through the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), has recommended increased support for soya bean and maize producers. Maize and soya beans are the primary components of poultry feed, accounting for about 70% of the cost of rearing a chicken. By partnering with Grain SA and the South African Poultry Association (SAPA), the IDC aims to increase supply and reduce costs for the poultry industry. The government is also encouraged to provide tax breaks on diesel and electricity, as well as crop insurance for small-scale farmers, to promote increased feed production.
Hatcheries and chick rearing are integral parts of the value chain, and the government's support extends to these areas as well. Through the Black Industrialists Programme, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and the IDC have provided financial backing to companies like Baramakama Poultry, enabling them to expand their operations. This support has resulted in increased capacity, job creation, and a more prominent position in the industry.
Abattoirs and processing facilities are also crucial components of the value chain. While specific mentions of government support for these aspects are not readily available, the overall objective of transforming the industry and ensuring food security implies that assistance is provided or being considered for these areas as well.
Overall, the South African government's interventions in chicken production aim to create a sustainable and viable industry that contributes to economic growth, employment, and food security. By supporting various stages of the value chain, the government hopes to empower Black Industrialists and address challenges and uncertainties faced by the poultry industry.
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The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) has proposed zero-rating specific chicken products to battle food insecurity
The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) has proposed zero-rating specific chicken products as a means to combat food insecurity in the country. SAPA, in collaboration with the Association of Meat Importers and Exporters South Africa (AMIE SA), submitted a proposal to the National Treasury to include certain chicken products under the zero-rated items listed in the VAT Act. This initiative is a response to President Cyril Ramaphosa's 2024 State of the Nation Address, which emphasised expanding essential zero-rated food items to support vulnerable citizens facing rising food prices.
SAPA's proposal underscores the significance of chicken as an affordable and nutritious protein source, especially for vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and low-income households. By recommending zero-rating specific chicken products, such as frozen bone-in chicken and fresh and frozen offal, SAPA aims to improve access to this essential protein. Additionally, they suggest alternative measures, including simplified chicken definitions or reduced VAT rates for all chicken products, to ensure effective implementation.
The proposal by SAPA is a proactive step towards ensuring food security and addressing malnutrition in South Africa. By removing the 15% value-added tax (VAT) on specific chicken products, the association believes that they can increase the accessibility and affordability of chicken for vulnerable populations. This initiative is particularly timely given the rising food prices and the need to support vulnerable citizens.
SAPA's efforts to battle food insecurity align with the South African government's goals of transforming the poultry industry. The government has provided financial support to poultry businesses, such as Baramakama Poultry, through the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (the dtic) and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). This support has enabled Baramakama Poultry to expand its operations, increase production capacity, and create new jobs, contributing to the country's economic growth and food security goals.
While SAPA's proposal to zero-rate specific chicken products is a step in the right direction, Moloko, the CEO of Baramakama Poultry, emphasises that comprehensive government support is necessary for meaningful transformation in the industry. This includes assistance across various stages of the value chain, such as feed production, hatcheries, abattoirs, chick rearing, processing, and market access. By addressing these aspects, the government can empower Black Industrialists to play a more prominent role in ensuring food security in South Africa.
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The government should provide tax breaks on diesel and electricity and remove red tape to facilitate solar installations
The South African government has been providing support to the poultry industry to ensure food security and promote the participation of Black Industrialists in the economy. Baramakama Poultry, a family-owned company, received financial support from the government to expand its operations, leading to increased production, job creation, and a significant impact on the industry.
To further enhance the industry's sustainability and growth, the government should consider providing tax breaks on diesel and electricity for chicken production. This would reduce the operational costs for chicken producers, enabling them to invest more in their businesses and create additional jobs. Lowering diesel and electricity costs through tax breaks can also make the industry more attractive to new entrants, fostering competition and innovation.
Additionally, the government should actively remove bureaucratic obstacles that hinder the adoption of solar energy solutions by chicken producers. Solar energy is a clean and renewable energy source that can reduce the industry's environmental footprint. By streamlining the processes for installing solar panels and providing access to suitable land or facilities, the government can make it easier for chicken producers to transition to solar energy. This will not only reduce their energy costs but also contribute to the country's sustainability goals and energy independence.
To facilitate solar installations, the government can offer tax breaks and subsidies specifically for solar energy adoption. This will lower the initial costs of implementing solar power, making it more accessible and affordable for chicken producers. The government can also provide performance-based rewards and rebates to encourage investment in solar energy infrastructure. By reducing the financial burden associated with solar installations, chicken producers will be more inclined to embrace renewable energy sources.
Furthermore, the government should consider providing educational resources and guidance to chicken producers regarding the benefits and processes of adopting solar energy. This can include sharing success stories and best practices from other industries or communities that have successfully transitioned to solar power. By leading by example and showcasing the advantages of solar energy, the government can encourage chicken producers to follow suit and reap the benefits of renewable energy sources.
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Frequently asked questions
The South African government supports chicken production through financial aid, programmes, and partnerships. For example, the government provided R50 million to Baramakama Poultry through the Black Industrialists Programme, which aims to increase the participation of Black Industrialists in the economy. The government also partnered with the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) to address challenges in the industry, such as proposing the removal of VAT on certain chicken products to battle food insecurity.
The financial support provided by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has enabled Baramakama Poultry to expand its operations, increase production, and create new jobs. Specifically, Baramakama was able to add five new automated chicken houses and a modern pack station, increasing its carrying capacity from 100,000 hens to 280,000.
One of the main challenges is the cost of feed, which accounts for about 70% of the cost of rearing a chicken. The government has been recommended to increase support for soya bean and maize producers, as these are the principal components of poultry feed. Additionally, the government should consider providing crop insurance, removing red tape, and investing in agricultural research and development to improve the industry.











































