Sunflower seed is the most important source of plant oil for human consumption in the RSA. About 50% of the demand for plant oil is satisfied by locally produced sunflower seed. The balance is made up of imports and other local plant oils such as canola, cotton seed and soya. Sunflower cake is an important by-product of the oil extraction process.
Why are oil refineries closed in South Africa?
Refinery closures in South Africa are shots fired in the long running contestation between the oil refiners and the government, which has been trying to introduce cleaner fuels.
Is Natref a surviving oil refinery in South Africa?
Natref is the last surviving oil refinery in South Africa. Three others were closed in the past two years. These refinery closures and the possible permanent closure of the Natref refinery are shots fired in the long running contestation between the oil refiners and the government, which has been trying to introduce cleaner fuels specifications.
Which type of sunflower seed is most important in the RSA?
In the RSA high-oil sunflower seed is by far the most important type produced. Sunflower seed is the most important source of plant oil for human consumption in the RSA. About 50% of the demand for plant oil is satisfied by locally produced sunflower seed.