The Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) is ramping up preparations for the highly anticipated Mpumalanga International FoodMarket (MIF), a groundbreaking initiative that promises to reshape the province’s agricultural economy and food distribution landscape.
Scheduled for a soft launch in June and a full-scale public opening in August 2025, the MIF — based in Mbombela — will become South Africa’s first large-scale international food market. As part of the preparations, DARDLEA has called on enterprises and individuals interested in serving as Fresh Produce Market Agents to submit their bids by 25 April 2025.
These agents will play a pivotal role in the daily operations of the market, using the commission-based trading model common in national fresh produce markets. Under this model, agents act as intermediaries between farmers and buyers, handling the sale of agricultural goods on behalf of local producers.
A Platform for Inclusive Agricultural Growth
According to Mr. Cain Chunda, Head of DARDLEA, the introduction of market agents is more than just a staffing call — it’s a strategic effort to open up opportunities in the agricultural value chain.
“We believe that this is part of our efforts to drive the sector towards diversity, inclusivity, and equitability,” said Chunda. “The Mpumalanga International FoodMarket will not only provide a structured and competitive platform for farmers but will also empower new entrants into the agribusiness space.”
Successful bidders will undergo specialized training to become accredited, equipping them with skills in trade negotiation, produce handling, compliance, and market logistics. This will ensure that transactions within the MIF are professional, transparent, and beneficial to both farmers and consumers.
Why Becoming a Market Agent Matters
For aspiring entrepreneurs and agri-businesses, becoming a market agent at the MIF offers several long-term advantages:
Direct Access to Fresh Produce Supply Chains: Agents will be at the heart of fresh produce trade, establishing networks with farmers, retailers, wholesalers, and institutions.
Business Growth Opportunities: With the MIF set to attract buyers locally and potentially internationally, agents can build scalable businesses with national relevance.
Empowerment Through Training: Participants will receive accredited training, enhancing their professional credibility and opening doors for future ventures within or beyond the MIF.
Support for Local Farmers: By representing small and emerging producers, agents help bring rural agricultural output to market, boosting food security and rural incomes.
Key Dates and How to Apply
Interested parties are encouraged to download bid documents from the official MIF website. DARDLEA will also host a briefing session for prospective agents on 10 and 11 April 2025 in Mbombela.
Full details are available on the Department’s social media platforms.
As Mpumalanga positions itself as a hub for agricultural excellence and international trade, the MIF stands as a bold symbol of the province’s commitment to economic transformation and food system innovation.
