DA’s Social Impact Bill will end uncertainty on race policies

22 November 2023

The DA strongly condemns the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development's (DALRRD) unlawful AgriBEE enforcement plan.

The use of race-based criteria in determining agricultural export permits is morally indefensible and jeopardises the livelihoods of 800 000 people in South Africa's agricultural sector.

The recent revelations about the ANC's utilisation of race in awarding export permits to agricultural businesses are alarming. The DA has lodged complaints with the EU and UK trade offices and is exploring legal avenues to counter these discriminatory practices.

In contrast to the destructive policies pursued by the ANC, the DA emphasises its commitment to fair and transformative legislation. The DA's Social Impact Bill, introduced in June, aims to reform public procurement comprehensively. This bill addresses the root causes of inequality, benefiting the majority of poor and vulnerable citizens.

The DA calls on the Minister of DALRRD to acknowledge and withdraw the AgriBEE Plan and Enforcement Guidelines. These documents propose race-based restrictions on permits, licenses, and certificates, undermining the principles of equality and fairness.

The DA will continue to fight against job-killing policies and discriminatory practices that threaten the economic well-being of South Africa.

Issued by Dean Macpherson, DA Shadow Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, 22 November 2023