Horticultural market reaches record levels

The horticultural market was established two years ago to help farmers dispose of their produce at a central place and to facilitate the marketing of their horticultural produce and thus promote the industry. The market - which comprises a specialised facility with coldrooms, a market floor and bays - provides a platform for trade between farmers and buyers, both local and regional.

On Wednesday, the market's Chief Executive Officer, Abakeng Koswane, revealed that the market currently handles up to 653 tonnes worth P1.8 million per month, up from figures of approximately 414 tonnes and P1.2 million last year. Koswane said from 1 200 registered buyers last year, the market now had 3 869, the top ten of which are large and established wholesalers and retail chains.