INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
Panel discussion insights on citrus export and quality control
The GCCA Africa Cold Chain Conference held in Cape Town hosted a panel discussion. Panellists were the four prior speakers who answered audience questions:
• Vijan Chetty, general manager of the Coastal Division of the Perishable Products Export Control Board( PPECB)
• Gavin Kelly, CEO of the Road Freight Association( RFA)
• Brian Tahinduka, senior manager of Natural Resources Logistics at Standard Bank Group
• Renier du Preez, CEO of Digistics and vice chair of GCCA Africa
The discussion offered practical insights for exporters, logistics operators and financial institutions navigating both regulatory compliance and emerging environmental imperatives.
The conversation opened with questions about citrus export practices, particularly in light of research suggesting that low-oxygen storage could harm fruit quality. Vijan Chetty, general manager of the Coastal Division at the Perishable Products Export Control Board( PPECB), explained that South African citrus storage regulations mandate a 15 % ventilation rate to manage CO₂ levels effectively. While advanced storage techniques using nitrogen generators to reduce oxygen are not widely adopted, current practices focus on careful monitoring, facility approvals, and compliance with internationally recognised standards.
Chetty emphasised that South African exporters benefit from a well-established framework of quality and food safety standards. This credibility ensures European
Compiled by Eamonn Ryan from the presentation
authorities trust South African consignments, reducing the need for routine inspections abroad.“ The consistent application of rigorous quality standards gives exporters a competitive edge in international markets,” he said.
An audience member from Ghana highlighted the challenges African farmers face when pallets are rejected despite internal quality control measures, leading to financial losses. Chetty acknowledged these concerns and noted that PPECB’ s century-long experience in quality control and regulatory compliance is not easily replicated. However, the organisation is open to collaboration, offering guidance and knowledge-sharing to support similar frameworks across Africa.
REFRIGERATED LOGISTICS: DIESEL, ELECTRIC AND THE DATA GAP
Gavin Kelly, CEO of the Road Freight Association( RFA), addressed the state of refrigerated transport in South Africa. One major challenge is data: there is no comprehensive record of refrigerated trucks in operation. Many vehicles are registered as closed-body trucks without specific refrigeration tags, and tracking refrigeration units separately from vehicles adds complexity.
Kelly also discussed the potential and limitations of electric trucks. Current models cannot carry the heaviest loads – typically capped at 46 tons, including vehicle, trailer and payload – while batteries can affect vehicle length and legal load compliance. High purchase costs, limited charging infrastructure, and long charging times further constrain adoption.“ For long-haul operations, diesel remains essential. Electric trucks work best for short-haul deliveries and lighter loads,” Kelly noted, highlighting the gradual evolution of heavy freight electrification.
He acknowledged that diesel engines are improving with stricter emissions standards, moving from Euro 5 to Euro 6 engines, but carbon emissions remain a challenge. Meanwhile, short-haul operations are seeing tangible gains with smaller electric vehicles, particularly in lastmile delivery, where logistics partners are already taking advantage of these“ quick wins.”
SUSTAINABILITY AND FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS
Brian Tahinduka, senior manager of Natural Resources Logistics at Standard Bank, emphasised the financial and operational benefits of sustainable practices. Standard Bank supports clients in adopting renewable energy systems, conducting in-depth modeling to identify cost savings, and offering financing options that can extend up to ten years.
Tahinduka also highlighted the emerging market for carbon credits and the bank’ s carbon trading platform, which connects carbon asset owners with buyers seeking longterm contracts. This growing market allows companies to monetise their sustainability efforts while reducing emissions.“ Access to concessional or low-interest financing can make initiatives like electric vehicle adoption more financially viable, creating a trickle-down effect that benefits operators,” he explained.
The panel explored alternative solutions beyond electric vehicles. Hydrogen-powered trucks, for instance, are under evaluation in various markets, but are not yet widely seen
NETWORKING
as a practical solution for heavy freight. Kelly stressed the importance of exploring multiple options and warned against prematurely favouring a single technology. Banks and logistics operators alike are researching feasibility, costs and implementation timelines for transitioning away from diesel.
Despite the challenges, the panel identified multiple avenues for growth and innovation. Decarbonisation is becoming a central focus, with stakeholders increasingly aligning with environmental commitments and emission reduction targets. Last-mile delivery and short-haul freight are proving fertile ground for electric vehicles, while longer-term solutions for heavy-haul transport continue to develop.
The discussion concluded with a consensus: maintaining high standards in citrus quality, embracing sustainable logistics practices and leveraging financial and technological tools are key to staying competitive. Early adoption of renewable energy solutions, carbon trading and innovative vehicle technologies can deliver operational efficiency, cost savings and environmental benefits.
TAKEAWAY
For African exporters and logistics operators, the path forward requires balancing traditional excellence with innovation. By maintaining rigorous quality controls, exploring sustainable energy options and collaborating across industries, stakeholders can strengthen market competitiveness, reduce carbon footprints, and position themselves for long-term success in a rapidly evolving global supply chain. CLA
March / April 2026 www. coldlinkafrica. co. za COLD LINK AFRICA
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