• 3.6% levy on wheat price

The Agronomic Producers Association (APA) has negotiated with the Namibian Grain Processors Association to include a 3.6% levy in the wheat price formula of the 2022/2023 marketing season.This resulted in a payout to producers of N$292 per tonne, totalling N$7.1 million.“This levy will from now on be permanently part of the wheat price formula,” the APA said.According to the association, in September, producers received transport back-pay from Namib Mills - to the value of N$856 000 - for the 2022 maize marketing season.“This was due to a reduction in the transport tariff from Otavi to Windhoek and some producers delivering directly to Windhoek.It said after negotiations with Namib Mills, they agreed not to bill producers for the extra silo bags used during the 2022 marketing season in Otavi, to the value of N$807 000.“During the 2023 maize marketing season, for the first time, management negotiated no deductions on silos and transport for deliveries in Otavi.”Producers were able to deliver maize when and where needed.Standardised gradingAPA said it is in the process of standardising the grading of maize and wheat accepted by millers.This will limit grains being downgraded and rejected at the mill door, it said.Furthermore, new grading principles for wheat were accepted for the 2023/24 marketing season.“This benefits producers and millers alike, by lowering protein levels for selected grades and including a super grade for the first time.”The association said it is constantly trying to optimise the production of grain crops in Namibia.To assist in reaching these goals, the APA is expanding its trials in different production zones and inviting specialists from South Africa on a yearly basis to advise farmers on production.“We are in the process of appointing an agricultural specialist to further assist with trials and provide advice to farmers.”More optionsMeanwhile, the production, processing and marketing of alternative crops like sunflowers, sorghum and cotton is a developing activity under the APA.The aim is to give producers more production options, especially during drier seasons, it said.“None of these achievements would have been possible without our strong management team. We therefore urge farmers to support their local APA representative by actively engaging with management on future plans in support of the members. This will ensure that the APA stays a relevant and effective organisation looking after the interests of all its members.”

• 3.6% levy on wheat price

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-17

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• 3.6% levy on wheat price

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-17

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