UASA Media Release: 29 July 2025
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
Representing labour, UASA is proud to have played a key role in the finalisation of a one-year wage agreement in the Sugar Industry.
After five months of wage negotiations in the Bargaining Council for the Sugar Manufacturing and Refining Industry, the involved parties reached a wage agreement with a 6.5% increase, as facilitated by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).
The agreement applies to all employees within the A1 to C3 job grades, with increases backdated to 1 April 2025.
This wage increase brings relief and renewed hope to workers as it translates directly into better living standards and improved financial stability for thousands of workers in the sector. Considering the cost-of-living challenges facing all workers, we are hopeful that this wage increase is a sign of stability for the sugar industry, as the sector has been threatened by several factors that have painted a gloomy picture for sugar producers and workers.
Wage increase agreements underscore the importance of collective bargaining as a tool and the key role played by labour in advancing workers’ interests in the workplace.
UASA appreciates and extends its gratitude to the negotiating team for their commitment in reaching a positive result in the negotiations. We also hope for a positive outcome from the ongoing talks happening in other sectors, including mining.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.