The levy is needed by HORTGRO (Pty) Ltd to fund research projects, information and technology transfer; plant improvement functions and certification; market information and statistics; communication; trade and market access; and transformation and training for the apple industry.

The measure will not be detrimental to the employment opportunities or fair labour practice and will support the statutory measures relating to registration and the rendering of records and returns applicable to apples.

The measure will be administered by HORTGRO, a company established in terms of the Companies Act (as amended), 2008 (Act 71 of 2008). HORTGRO will implement and administer the measure as set out in the Schedule within DFPT Finance NPC, a non-profit company, incorporated in terms of the Companies Act (as amended), 2008 (Act 71 of 2008).