It was pointed out that South Africa had a highly diversified agro-food industry, ranging through the major grains, sugar, citrus, wine, and most vegetables. It has amongst the most affordable, safe and nutritious food in the world. However, it was recognised that South Africa was suffering from underdevelopment and poverty in many marginalised rural areas. Furthermore, a lack of household food security was a problem due to insufficient disposable income and lack of skills, finance and market access to participate competitively in the mainstream agro-food industry.