THE SA grain industry is one step closer to having a whole-of-industry focused strategic plan, with the state government committing $140,000 to the development of an industry blueprint.
Primary Industries Minister Tim Whetstone said the government wanted to build on the strengths of the state's grains industry and develop a blueprint that would assist industry to "strive for reachable targets".
"There are significant opportunities for the grains industry to grow through the development of supply chain efficiencies, new industry sectors and varieties, adoption of emerging technologies, research, development and extension, market access and value-adding," he said.
Having a Grain Industry Blueprint to work from could be a game-changer.
- CAROLINE RHODES
"The grains industry has advocated for a whole-of-industry, whole-of-supply chain blueprint to outline the long-term industry development goals and I'm pleased to work with Grain Producers SA to develop such a plan."
GPSA chief executive officer Caroline Rhodes welcomed the blueprint funding, agreeing there was "enormous opportunities" to grow the grains sector in SA.
"Having a Grain Industry Blueprint to work from could be a game-changer," she said.
"We believe this project will support future investment and policy decision making across the industry, by developing targets for the entire supply chain.
"I'm looking forward to working with industry and the state government to outline a future vision for the grain industry."
Related reading: Grain infrastructure blueprint needed: GPSA
A working group with industry members will be established and tasked to drive the blueprint development project, ensuring each part of the value chain is included, from growers, traders and exporters, to domestic processors and other value adders, research, transport and bulk handlers.
"SA's grain industry is one of the state's largest economic contributors for primary industries and agribusiness revenue, contributing almost $4.2 billion in 2017-18," Mr Whetstone said.
"There are an estimated 4500 graingrowers in SA and this blueprint will help grow agribusiness revenue and increase jobs in the state."
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