South Africa Wine Opens Membership Offering Producers A United Voice And Greater Industry Influence

Membership in South Africa Wine is officially open. WineLand sat down with Rico Basson, CEO of South Africa Wine, to unpack what’s in it for producers, processors, brand owners, and everyone connected to the value chain – and why joining now is essential for the future of South African wine.

South Africa Wine CEO Rico Basson

Many producers say they’re stretched thin between rising costs, climate pressures, and market uncertainty. Why should they join South Africa Wine right now?

South Africa Wine was established in 2023 to give the entire sector, from farm to market, one coordinated, powerful voice. By becoming a member, producers directly influence how we tackle policy, sustainability, and market access. Through the Producer and Processor Stakeholder Forum, members have a seat at the table where these vital decisions are made. It’s about shifting from being on the receiving end towards actively and collectively shaping your future. Vinpro, with its regional producer-facing model and technical expertise, will continue to be a strong alliance partner of South Africa Wine and continue to play an active role at various levels with South Africa Wine, thus creating a more focused approach and value add for producers.

And what about processors and cellars – how do they fit in?

Processors are at the heart of the value chain, and their challenges are unique. They have direct representation through dedicated forums and board-level seats, ensuring their operational realities influence industry strategies. Whether it’s efficiency, compliance, or market positioning, their input helps steer decisions that impact the whole production ecosystem. The South Africa wine team recognise the diversity of business models and will customise support programmes towards the 509 wineries and related processor business in the sector.

Brand owners are the storytellers of South African wine. How does membership support their work?

Brand owners benefit through coordinated advocacy for conducive policy including curbing illicit trade, market access, distribution, export and domestic promotion, and consumer insight initiatives. Our collaboration with Wines of South Africa (WoSA) gives members access to global market opportunities and brand partnerships. The Export Growth and Market Access Strategy and our new domestic market, brandy and tourism plans ensure our brands compete at every level – from emerging local consumers to premium international buyers.

Exporters are competing globally under tough conditions. What tangible support does South Africa Wine give them?

Membership means access to advocacy that works for your business. We engage the government on trade policy, logistics, non-tariff barriers, and specific  trade agreements for growth markets. Together with WoSA, we ensure South African wine has the visibility, access, and positioning it needs abroad. We’re reacting to global shifts and actively shaping them.

Let’s talk about inclusivity. What about emerging and black-owned producers?

Transformation is not a side project; it’s a pillar of our inclusive growth plan. Through our Inclusion and Development Strategy, we support black-owned and emerging enterprises with structured funding, mentorship, and market access – from the NAMC Production Scheme to the Wine Arc and brand acceleration programmes. Our Board structure guarantees representation, with at least four of the eleven non-executive director seats reserved for black business leaders.

So, why should I join if I’m a small player or even an associated member?

Because you’re part of the ecosystem. Associated members gain access to research, advocacy updates, and a robust network that influences everyone’s operating environment. Whether in packaging, logistics, tourism, or consulting, your success depends on a healthy, growing wine sector. Membership gives you a voice in influencing that future.

The model sounds inclusive, but how do you ensure every voice –  big and small –  really counts?

Our governance is balanced 50:50 between the supply (producers/processors) and market (brand owners) sides. Voting weight is transparent and tied to verified outputs and levies, so influence is earned, not assumed. This democratic structure ensures accountability and representation for every member. Various communication platforms exist to ensure open dialogue. This range from regional days and conferences via our various social media and other relevant channels. Our service orientation and open-door policy ensure direct access to expertise.

If you had to sum it up –  why should everyone in the industry become a member today?

Because the South Africa Wine group is the platform that turns strategy into action. It connects policy, research, people, transformation, and market access under one coordinated plan. If you’re not a member, you risk having your future decided without your voice in the room.

Finally, what’s your vision for South Africa Wine going forward?

We’re building a stronger, more unified sector that balances profit with purpose, tradition with transformation. Our mission is simple: to create certainty, competitiveness, and sustainability for every part of the value chain. Membership is the key to being part of that collective success story.

South Africa Wine exists to turn shared challenges into shared opportunities because together, we’re stronger, more visible, and future-ready.

The South Africa Wine membership application form is accessible here.