Ahead of the forthcoming State of the Nation Address (SoNA), nonprofit advocacy organisation South Africa Wine highlights issues that it says require immediate attention for the betterment of the South African wine industry.

These priorities are all part of various submissions made to government departments. If addressed proactively, they can significantly contribute to the industry’s growth and the wellbeing of the people whose livelihoods depend on this industry, it argues.

With its strong agricultural footprint and extensive value chain, the wine and brandy industry contributes R56-billion a year to the country’s gross domestic product and creates 270 000 jobs – 1.8% of national employment.

South Africa Wine adds, however, that the lack of profitability at production and winery levels needs to be urgently addressed through targeted interventions underpinned by a conducive policy to ensure reinvestment and instil confidence.

National priorities include excise tax alignment with inflation, investment in law enforcement, infrastructure development, alternative power supply, agricultural development support, solar and wind alternative incentives and water infrastructure prioritisation.

“We strongly urge government to ensure excise taxes remain aligned with inflation rates and linked to the incidence alcohol policy framework set by the National Treasury, thus avoiding undue burden on our industry and producers. The wine and brandy sector needs a balanced approach to taxation to ensure economic stability and foster fairness in the system,” says South Africa Wine CEO Rico Basson.

Enhancing investment in law enforcement, particularly the police force and empowering the South African Revenue Service to combat illicit trade are imperative steps towards fostering a safe and secure society. Hence, strengthening the capabilities of local law enforcement agencies is fundamental to maintaining the existing rule of law.

Recognising the vital role of infrastructure for economic growth is also of utmost importance, South Africa Wine argues, noting that urgent attention and increased investment in ports and railways are needed, and strategic partnerships between the public and private sectors can create an environment conducive to economic development.

Moreover, it describes the agricultural sector as being the “shining star” in contributing to the South African economy over the past few quarters.

Implementing the Agricultural and Agro Processing Masterplan and providing funding for priority actions remain important to ensure coordination and investment for the agricultural sector, it adds.

Priority themes include improved export market access by addressing tariff and non-tariff measures, research and development and financial support for development programmes to enable inclusive growth.

Acknowledging the need for a transition to alternative power sources is also vital whereby introducing and fast-tracking incentives and tax rebates for individuals and businesses investing in sustainable energy solutions on a larger scale can “go a long way.”

This also aligns with global sustainability goals, thereby contributing to energy independence.

Further, addressing water-related challenges requires a comprehensive strategy beyond constructing dams and related infrastructure. Investment in new pipelines and building capacity for the future to safeguard water resources and ensure sustainable development is non-negotiable, the organisation adds.

“South Africa Wine would like to urge government to prioritise these important issues in the upcoming SoNA. We firmly believe decisive action in these areas will pave the way for a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous future for the South African wine industry and those who work and live here,” Basson concludes.