Highlights from the 2025 WUWM Conference in Johannesburg

The World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) concluded its landmark 2025 Conference in Johannesburg, 14- 16 May 2025, bringing together over 450 participants from more than 22 countries. This historic event marked the organization’s return to the African continent for the first time in over two decades and positioned Africa at the heart of the global conversation on food systems transformation.

Hosted by the City of Johannesburg and Joburg Market, the conference was held under the theme: “The African Edition: Shaping the Future of Fresh Produce Markets through Sustainability, Innovation, and Inclusivity.”

The event featured high-level keynote addresses that set the tone for an inspiring and action-oriented dialogue:

• Cllr. Nomoya Mnisi, MMC for Economic Development, called on delegates to reimagine wholesale markets as drivers of food security, economic development, climate resilience, and social inclusion.
• Mr. Stéphane Layani, Chairman of WUWM, emphasized the crucial role of innovation in market systems, describing wholesale markets as engines of inclusivity and employment, as well as structural pillars of agricultural supply chains.
• Cllr. Sello Morero, Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, reaffirmed the city’s commitment to aligning its actions with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
• Minister Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, urged participants to view Johannesburg as a catalyst for a transformative shift in global food systems. He highlighted the vital role that the exchange of fresh produce plays in strengthening economies and fostering sustainable development.

Joburg Market Demonstrates World-Class Leadership

The official visit to Joburg Market, the largest fresh produce market in Africa, showcased its operational excellence and innovation, reinforcing its position as one of the most advanced wholesale markets globally. Delegates were deeply impressed by the scale and sophistication of the facility, which stands as a model for market modernization on the continent.

WUWM Board Meeting: 13 New Members Approved, Global Network Reaches 200 Members

In parallel with the conference, the WUWM Board held a strategic meeting, during which it approved 13 new members, increasing the organization’s global membership to 200 markets and organizations — a significant milestone in WUWM’s history.

Newly represented countries include Sweden, Cameroon, Uzbekistan, and Pakistan, further expanding WUWM’s international reach and reinforcing its commitment to fostering a truly global community of wholesale markets.

Looking Forward

As WUWM Chairman, Stéphane Layani, concluded:

“This conference marks a turning point for the African continent. The energy, ideas, and ambition shared here will help shape the future of food systems, both in Africa and around the world.”

WUWM’s next international gathering will take place in Brussels, Belgium, in 5th – 7th November 2025, hosted by MABRU the Brussels Market.

About Joburg Market

The Joburg Market, located in Johannesburg, South Africa, is the largest fresh produce market in Africa and one of the biggest globally. Covering a surface area of 64 hectares with 75,000 square meters trading facility selling on average 1.4 million tons of fresh produce annually. The market handles thousands of tons of produce daily, sourced from across South Africa and neighboring countries. Serving as a vital link in the food supply chain, it supports both formal and informal traders and plays a key role in ensuring food security while creating economic opportunities for farmers, agents, and entrepreneurs.

About WUWM

The World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) is a global non-profit organization representing over 200 wholesale markets and associated stakeholders. WUWM promotes sustainable, resilient, and inclusive food systems by supporting the essential role of wholesale markets in feeding cities and strengthening local agriculture. Through its international network, WUWM facilitates the exchange of good practices, organizes global conferences, and fosters collaboration among members. The organization also supports initiatives such as the “Love Your Local Market” campaign, encouraging local engagement and retail vibrancy, and actively partners with international organizations to further its mission of enhancing the role of wholesale markets in global food systems.