The Southern Africa Conference Programme
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Welcome Reception
Thursday, July 24, 2025
Welcome & Networking Breakfast
Target Markets: Trends for North America & Asia
Our Conference educational sessions kick off with data-packed presentations from experts on consumer trends in the North American and Asian markets. Learn what retail shoppers are looking for and how South Africa's producers can meet their needs profitably.
Speaker
Prof. Patrick Vizzone
Co-Founder & CFO
Vertical Oceans and
Executive Director
Dimuto
Morning Break
Asian & North American Buyer Insights
Industry insiders with knowledge of the North American and Asian markets share their expertise and understanding of buyers' needs and challenges to help South African suppliers in working effectively with them to put more of their products in retail stores - completing the journey from farm to fork.
Speaker
Shubha Rawal
Head of Procurement,
IG International Private Ltd.
Moderated Review & Discussion of Sessions 1 & 2
In this review of the morning's sessions, panelists retake the stage to answer audience questions and discuss next steps, action items, and takeaways. Interactive tools will allow audience members to weigh in on polls and share their opinions and concerns.
Lunch
Logistics Challenges: Impacts on Exports from Shipping & Regulation
Join industry experts on the logistical challenges faced all along the South Africa supply chain - from shipping roadblocks to regulatory hurdles - and gain insights into the need for a renewed focus on the EU as a target market.
Speakers
Steve Alaerts
Partner & Director
Foodcareplus Logistics NV
Werner van Rooyen
COO
Fresh Produce Exporters Forum
Afternoon Break
Tech Innovations to Meet Industry Needs
What's new? What's next? Find out in this enlightening session as IFPA's Chief Science Officer, Dr. Max Teplitski, shares his expertise on the future of fresh produce technology. Discover the inside info on tech innovations in support of greater efficiency, increased sustainability, and stronger food safety protections from companies developing the technology that will change how fresh produce is grown, packaged, distributed, and sold.
Speaker
