Fruit South Africa, initially launched as an exporters' initiative in 2000, has been reconstituted and established as a joint initiative by the citrus, deciduous and sub-tropical fruit industries.

Having registered as an export advisory council with the Department of Trade & Industry, FSA aims to work with government and fruit industry stakeholders in a bid to enhance fruit trade and global competitiveness for South African players.

The main aim of FSA is to create a body to co-ordinate joint actions in market development, transformation and education, market access, information and logistics.

Stepping in as chairman of the board is citrus exporter Graeme Malcolm, with deciduous grower Francois Rossouw as vice chairman.

Founding members of FSA are the Deciduous Fruit Producers Trust, Citrus Growers Association of Southern Africa, Subtropical Growers Association and Fresh Produce Exporters Forum.

Other fruit industry stakeholders and players are being invited to apply for membership of FSA. For more information email: fruitsa@cga.co.za