WIETA

WIETA The Wine and Agricultural Ethical Trading Association (WIETA), a multi-stakeholder organisation, actively promotes ethical trade in the wine industry.

The Wine and Agricultural Ethical Trading Association (WIETA) is a multi-stakeholder, non-profit voluntary organisation which actively promotes ethical trade in the wine industry value chain through training, technical assessment and audits to assess members' compliance with its code of good practice. Stakeholders include producers, retailers, trade unions, non-governmental organisations and the government.

WIETA was pleased to attend the Agri Werkgewersorganisasie AGM held at Klein Joostenberg today.KAW plays an important r...
05/06/2026

WIETA was pleased to attend the Agri Werkgewersorganisasie AGM held at Klein Joostenberg today.

KAW plays an important role in supporting agricultural employers across the Western Cape. Their work is crucial in helping producers navigate an increasingly complex labour and regulatory environment while promoting constructive workplace practices.

As organisations working within the agricultural labour landscape, opportunities to engage with each other as industry stakeholders, and to exchange perspectives, remain valuable to us. WIETA would like to extend a thanks to KAW and their CEO, Ciske Oosthuizen, for hosting a productive AGM and for the opportunity to participate in the conversation.

Who qualifies for ESTA protection? Many people assume that ESTA only applies where there is a written housing agreement....
05/06/2026

Who qualifies for ESTA protection? Many people assume that ESTA only applies where there is a written housing agreement. In reality, Under ESTA, consent may be implied where a person has lived openly and continuously on a farm for an extended period and no objection has been raised.

This week, our WIETA Guidance Notes series explores the three key requirements for ESTA protection and why understanding them matters for both occupiers and landowners. Knowing who is protected under ESTA is an important step towards lawful and transparent on-farm housing practices.

The theme of this year's South Africa Wine Summit, “Context is King” offered a timely reminder that the wine industry ca...
29/05/2026

The theme of this year's South Africa Wine Summit, “Context is King” offered a timely reminder that the wine industry can’t operate in isolation. Throughout the day, speakers and industry leaders reflected on the economic pressures, climate realities, shifting consumer preferences and global market dynamics that continue to shape South African wine. These are often presented to us as business challenges, but they are also realities that influence the people who work throughout the value chain, from vineyard to cellar and beyond.

For WIETA, one of the most valuable aspects of the Summit was the opportunity to engage with conversations that recognise the interconnected nature of the industry's future. Discussions around sustainability and innovation are important, but equally important is ensuring that these conversations remain connected to the social dimensions of sustainability and the people whose labour underpins the sector.

As an organisation, WIETA values opportun@ities to listen, learn, and contribute to these wider industry conversations. The future of South African wine will undoubtedly be influenced by many external forces, but the challenge (and opportunity) is ensuring that as the industry evolves, people remain part of the conversation.

Thank you to SA Wine, the speakers, and fellow participants who contributed to a thought-provoking day of discussion and engagement.

In Week 2 of the WIETA Guidance Notes housing series, we focus on three key documents that support lawful and transparen...
26/05/2026

In Week 2 of the WIETA Guidance Notes housing series, we focus on three key documents that support lawful and transparent farm housing management:
• Employment contracts
• Housing contracts
• Housing policies

These documents play an important role in clarifying rights, responsibilities, procedures, and the distinction between employment benefits and ESTA protections. Strong documentation practices work to support compliance and also contribute to consistency and fair labour relations on farms.

Introducing our new WIETA Guidance Notes series, providing practical guidance on key labour and housing matters affectin...
21/05/2026

Introducing our new WIETA Guidance Notes series, providing practical guidance on key labour and housing matters affecting the agricultural sector.

This week’s focus looks at housing as an employment benefit and the important distinction between being an employee and an occupier under ESTA. Understanding these separate legal relationships is essential for lawful and responsible housing practices on farms.

Follow the series over the coming weeks as we unpack key aspects of housing compliance, ESTA rig@hts, and practical risk management.

08/05/2026

WIETA recently hosted an informative session with key industry stakeholders to explore constructive approaches to addressing critical concerns related to human rights due diligence within the South African wine value chain. The session aimed to create a platform for meaningful dialogue between trade unions, civil society, and producers, with a focus on strengthening industrial relations and addressing ongoing challenges.

Key discussion areas included:
- An overview of the Agricultural Master Plan and its relevance to human rights due diligence in the wine industry
- Identification of pressing issues faced by farm workers and trade unions at ground level
- Understanding the legal framework and improving access to dispute resolution mechanisms
- Analysis of wages and the broader impact on quality of life within farming communities
- Expectations of Systembolaget regarding business conduct and human rights within the wine supply chain

A sincere thanks to all presenters, facilitators and stakeholders.

This focuses on water risk management and the safe handling of agricultural remedies at mixing and filling points. Und...
06/05/2026

This focuses on water risk management and the safe handling of agricultural remedies at mixing and filling points. Under SANS 10206, safe handling of agricultural remedies isn’t optional but essential.

Clear warning signage, worker training, safe storage practices, and contamination prevention protect workers, surrounding communities, and the environment - all while ensuring compliance with the WIETA Standard and SANS 10206 requirements.

Good compliance should go beyond audit readiness. It should support safer workplaces, healthier ecosystems, and more responsible production practices.

Today, on Workers’ Day 2026, we celebrate the people at the heart of the wine industry: the workers whose dedication and...
01/05/2026

Today, on Workers’ Day 2026, we celebrate the people at the heart of the wine industry: the workers whose dedication and resilience make every harvest possible.

At WIETA, we recognise the incredible progress made across the sector to improve working conditions, promote fair treatment, and uplift the lives of workers and their families. From safer workplaces to stronger rights and greater skills development and work opportunities, every step forward is a testament to what collaboration and commitment can achieve.

But the journey doesn’t end here. Together, we continue striving for an industry rooted in dignity, equity, and respect for all.

Here’s to the hands behind the harvest. Today and every day.

This we're focusing on the condition of infrastructure and equipment across farms and cellars: from structurally sound...
29/04/2026

This we're focusing on the condition of infrastructure and equipment across farms and cellars: from structurally sound buildings and proper ventilation, to guarded machinery and safe electrical systems.

Regular maintenance, clear safety measures, and trained operators are key to reducing risk and ensuring a safe working environment.

Consult this guide to ensure that your site is inspection-ready.

WIETA wishes everyone in the wine industry and across the agricultural sector a day of reflection and gratitude for the ...
27/04/2026

WIETA wishes everyone in the wine industry and across the agricultural sector a day of reflection and gratitude for the tireless efforts of the South African people that contributed to the country's first democratic elections in 1994.

Let their, and your dedication continue to shape our land, our economy, and our shared future.

Today we celebrate growth, resilience, and the freedom to continuously cultivate a better tomorrow for all of us.

Address

16 Elektron Road, Techno Park
Stellenbosch
7599

Telephone

+27218800580

Website

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