Durban - The Durban Fresh Produce Market (DFPM) has been hailed as one of the best performing markets in the country.
A report before the portfolio committee on Economic Development has found that the entity was doing well and recording a profit despite intense competition from the private sector.
The report also called for continued investment to keep the market competitive.
The DFPM is a department within the city’s Business Support, Tourism & Markets Unit, which is responsible for facilitating the distribution of fresh produce in bulk.
“DFPM has the distinction of being the largest distributor of fresh produce within the province of KwaZulu-Natal and the fourth largest bulk market in South Africa,” said the report.
It said the market has emerged as one of the leading markets in the country despite increased competition from private enterprises.
“In order for Durban market to remain competitive and relevant within the fresh produce sector, it is imperative that the facility is adequately maintained, and requisite funds are set aside annually for the upgrade of the facility, failing which the market performance will diminish,” said the report.
It said the bulk market over the past 5 years has contributed a total of R125.4 million to rates and general services. The profit achieved in the 2021/22 financial year amounted to R 22.3m.
DA councillor and committee member Sakhile Mngadi said the city needed to do more to make the market more accessible and to provide equipment.
“The jury is out on whether the Durban Fresh Produce Market is the best in the country. One needs to just have a conversation with traders at the market about their working conditions and the support they receive from the municipality to get a sense that more needs to be done.
“While there may be improvements after DA pressure, in certain sectors of the market, I believe it’s too early for the municipality to pat itself on the back,” he said.
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