Fresh produce market challenges and opportunities: A case for the johannesburg municipal fresh produce market

Abstract

This chapter examines the functioning of the national fresh produce markets (NFPMs) with specific reference to three themes: 1) challenges in the regulatory environment, and the importance of social relation; 2) networks in shaping the actual functioning of the NFPMs alongside the narrowly economic relations that exist amongst the market participants in the NFPMs; and 3) the importance of informal sector for the NFPMs and for the distribution of fresh produce. Specific reference is made to the Johannesburg Fres case study for the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market (JFPM). The chapter proposes some solutions to the mentioned challenges.