Mpumalanga Fresh Produce Market misses another deadline: Agriculture announces postponement of launch
On Thursday, July 31, the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (Dardlea) released a statement announcing that the launch – which was scheduled for the end of July – has been delayed once more.
According to Dardlea's provincial spokesperson, Zanele Shabangu, a new official launch date will be communicated once all outstanding regulatory processes have been finalised to ensure that the market can operate in a sustainable and legally compliant manner.
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market misses deadline
The MIFPM, described by Premier Mandla Ndlovu as the country's first fresh produce market since liberation, was initially announced in November 2018 and was due for completion by September 2020. However, various challenges led to multiple delays.
Another deadline – intended as a soft launch – was missed in April. This soft launch was announced by Ndlovu during the State of the Province Address in February. Then, on July 12, he stated that the market would open by the end of the month.
'As part of our commitment to transparency, accountability and responsible governance, the Mpumalanga provincial government wishes to inform the public and all stakeholders that the official launch of the MIFPM, initially planned for July 2025, has been postponed,' said Shabangu.
She added that the decision follows the identification of a technical administrative oversight during the final stages of preparation.
'Specifically, the operational-specific by-laws that regulate the day-to-day functioning of the market are still in the process of formal adoption by the relevant municipal structures.'
Shabangu said the Certificate of Occupancy is also in the process of being finalised as part of the remaining statutory compliance requirements. While procedural in nature, these elements are essential to ensuring that the market operates in line with all legislative, safety and governance standards.
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market officially handed over to departments
In the interim, Dardlea will continue with its planned outreach programme, including roadshows and stakeholder engagements.
'These engagements aim to maintain momentum, deepen communication and ensure that farmers and stakeholders are fully informed and prepared for the revised market timeline.
'The provincial government remains fully committed to delivering a safe, functional and transformative fresh produce market that advances agricultural development, food system integration and economic inclusion across Mpumalanga,' Shabangu said.
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