As we step into the month of August, I want to express my profound gratitude and respect for your unwavering dedication, perseverance, and commitment to Hume International – it is truly inspiring, and it is your collective strength that propels our company forward. 

August is a distinctive month, not only because it heralds the anticipation of spring but also because it is the month in which we celebrate Women’s Day. This presents an ideal time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the significant role that women play in our company, our society, and in our personal lives. 

Women’s Month allows us an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable women amongst us, to honour their unique perspectives, their indomitable spirit, their grace, and resilience. Strong women shape our company and our culture, bringing an element of finesse to our success.  

This is also an opportune time to renew our commitment to equality and respect for all. Each one of us, irrespective of gender, plays an integral role in our organisation. We are united in our pursuit of excellence, and it is this shared quest that enables us to overcome challenges and reach new heights. 

Remember, the work you do is important and the value you bring is immeasurable. Let's embrace August with open hearts and minds, ready for the opportunities and challenges it presents. Here's to an outstanding month filled with productivity, prosperity, and progress, as we continue to support one another, encourage growth and personal development, and celebrate each other’s achievements.  

Thank you for your tireless commitment and dedication. I believe that united we can only go from strength to strength. Here's to you, to us, and to a fantastic August!  

Lastly, I would like to give a warm welcome to each new team member. Hume International is delighted to have you on board.  

In the news this month:  

The reinstatement of anti-dumping duties on imported chicken continues to place strain on the local food supply. The new duties include an anti-dumping duty of up to 265% on chicken imports from Brazil, Ireland, Poland, Spain, and Denmark.

Izaak Breitenbach, General Manager of the South African Poultry Association claims that the landed cost of imported chicken from Brazil is around R9.00 per kilogram, while local producer prices are closer to R30.50. However, this estimation does not take into account the cost of mechanically deboned meat (MDM) chicken and offal, which are often significantly less expensive than bone-in meat.

Importing chicken leg quarters, a popular cut in South Africa, is already costing over R35.00 per kilogram, including duties. Local producers have a clear advantage over international competitors. The government collects import duties of 82% and 62% from Brazil and the US, respectively.

All market participants, including producers, sellers, consumers, and the government, will benefit from reciprocal trade. South Africa cannot expect to export with low or no duties while imposing absurd duties on import partners. US poultry imports and low anti-dumping duties are a necessary trade-off for the local poultry industry to ensure South Africa's continued participation in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) trade agreement, which provides beneficial trade terms for local manufacturers with America.

The agreement has created numerous jobs and contributed significantly to the disposable income and purchasing power of South African citizens, who consume both local and internationally sourced chicken.

New duties in South Africa may lead to supply shortages of popular chicken cuts, resulting in higher prices on the shelves and in restaurants. Hume International, as a local food distributor, prefers a consistent supply of affordable, locally produced chicken. However, the local industry currently lacks production and faces challenges in growth and profitability. Customers, including wholesalers and retailers, have been willing to pay a premium for imported chicken due to the shortage. Further engagements and discussions with stakeholders are needed to find better solutions. Until then, the new tariffs should be suspended.

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” -President John Quincy Adams

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