As in the past two
years, Agricultural Machinery sales continue to reflect a downward
trend.
Following what we now
can regard as an industry high, tractor sales of 6049 units in 1996
slumped to 2624 units in 1999. Following a promising start to
2000 it now appears that 2000 tractor sales will not reach the 3000
mark.
Whilst baler sales
could exceed 1999 sales by approximately 15.0%, Combine sales are set
to record an all time low.
I regard the high maize
crop with very low prices being paid to the farmer as the most
negative factor affecting the Market. Other concerns are the
increase in input costs such as diesel fuel and general uncertainty
amongst farmers as to the future of Agriculture in South Africa.
On the positive side
wheat plantings have increased and should the weather be kind we could
look forward to a favourable crop by year end.
As for 2001 a forecast
of between 2500 and 3000 units can be regarded as realistic.
Despite the decline in
Agricultural Machinery sales, SAAMA takes note with great concern that
an increasing number of Manufacturers / Distributors are entering this
Market.
SAAMA has also
addressed the amount of used equipment being imported and to protect
its members a plan of action is being put into place to address
Government regarding this matter.
SAAMA did attract new
members during the past year however I must express my concern
regarding the attendance and support of certain members. In a
shrinking industry I appeal to all our members to stand together and
with your input assist to protect this industry.
One of the major
subjects that faced SAAMA members during the past year was the Natis /
Compulsory Vehicle specifications.
With the specification
originally drafted more towards commercial vehicle standards, SAAMA
together with the SABS were able to convince the Authorities to amend
the draft in line with Agricultural requirements. This is
currently in progress and the Homologation program will now only
become effective late 2001. Our thanks to the SAAMA Committee as
well as to our Secretary for their important input into this matter.
For the financial year
ending 30 June 2000 we reflected income of R80,052.89 and expenditure
of R74,434.00 . Our 32 day notice saving account stood at
R31,208 as at June 30 compared to R28,489 as at 30 June 1999.
Our fourth SAAMA Golf
day was held on the 24th of August this year at the Benoni County Club
and thanks to the commitment of members should realize a profit of +-
R10,000.
All members expressed
their reasonable satisfaction with the Nampo show. Two concerns
were raised being parking and the event date. The latter was
addressed with the GPO and in good spirit it was agreed by all parties
to move the show to the 15th - 18th of May 2001 and the 14th - 17th of
May 2002.
SAAMA continues to
highly appreciate the valuable service supplied by Agfacts to the
Industry. With the continuous change in Manufacturers Models and
Product Offerings this service is of unmeasurable value to all SAAMA
members and others.
Response Group Trendline continue
to provide the industry with which I regard the best system and data
in the world. Their support of SAAMA Golf days and the AGM does
not go unnoticed.
There is no doubt in my
mind that the Agricultural Machinery Industry is facing major changes
in an effort to survive. One asks the question with who do we
hold hands to secure our future.
I wish to extend my
thanks to the Executive for their support during the year and a
special thanks once again to our Secretary, Jim Rankin for all he puts
into SAAMA. Jim provides SAAMA with more than his function
responsibility which is much appreciated.
To the incoming
Committee, best wishes for the year that lies ahead.
MIKE J TERBLANCHE
Chairman
