Approximately 300 000 to 350 000 tons of plant oils are produced in South Africa and the balance is imported, primarily as sunflower oil and soya oil. The biggest sales point for canola in the Western Cape is the industrial market because of its good emulsifying characteristics.
When did canola become a viable crop in South Africa?
Believe it or not, canola only became established as a viable crop here in 1996, when SOILL (Southern Oil Pty Ltd) opened the doors of its canola oil refinery in Swellendam. Apart from a dip during and after the Western Cape drought of 2015-2017, the industry has grown immensely.
Why is canola growing in South Africa?
Canola farming in South Africa has expanded in recent years due to increases in global demand for canola oil and in August 2022, 121 000 hectares were under canola, up 21% from the previous year. The main producing area is in the Western Cape, where there are over 1,000 canola farmers.
Why is canola production important?
Canola production, as such, has significantly improved grain production sustainability, as well as rural development and job creation. Southern Oil (Pty) Ltd (SOILL) procures all the locally grown canola seed produced in South Africa.