Vijan Chetty, general manager of the Coastal Division of the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB), addressed attendees at the Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) Conference, emphasising the critical role of sustainability in South Africa’s export industry. This is Part 1 of a three-part series.
Established nearly a century ago, the PPECB is dedicated to ensuring the quality and safety of perishable exports, including fruits and vegetables. The organisation plays a pivotal role in maintaining standards across the entire supply chain, from pack houses to refrigerated vessels.
“Our mandate is to regulate the quality and phytosanitary status of perishable products, creating confidence in South African produce,” Chetty stated. He highlighted the PPECB’s regulatory framework, which includes the Agricultural Product Standards Act (APS Act) and the cold chain regulations under the PPECB Act, emphasising its commitment to food safety and traceability.
With over 1 000 employees and 32 offices nationwide, the PPECB oversees approximately 1 300 activity points across the country. It is ISO 9001:2015 accredited, ensuring that products meet stringent quality and safety standards throughout the export process. “We are responsible from the moment a product is packed to the time it is loaded onto a vessel,” Chetty explained.
Chetty also outlined the organisation’s rigorous temperature management protocols. Every export vessel is monitored daily to ensure compliance with specified temperature standards, essential for preserving the integrity of perishable goods. “Quality and food safety are our top priorities,” he added.
In addition to regulatory responsibilities, the PPECB conducts equipment certification for cold storage facilities, refrigerated trucks, and specialised vessels, ensuring they meet necessary technical criteria. Chetty emphasised the importance of maintaining a robust cold chain to protect South African exports.
He highlighted the significance of innovation and research in adapting to the challenges of the global export market, reinforcing the PPECB’s commitment to sustainable practices. “Sustainability is more than just energy efficiency; it’s about adopting a circular approach to our systems,” he said, urging stakeholders to prioritise these principles in their operations.
The presentation highlighted the PPECB’s vital role in promoting South Africa’s perishable products in the global market, ensuring quality, safety, and sustainability as essential components of successful exports.