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French maltster Soufflet Malt has started building a new malting facility next to Heineken’s Sedibeng Brewery in Midvaal.
The facility will produce 100,000 tons of malt per year. It will source all barley locally, with 30% coming from emerging and small-scale commercial farmers.
In addition, the project strengthens South Africa’s local agricultural supply chain.
Local Farmers to Benefit
Gauteng Agriculture MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgopa said the facility will replace about 4,500 containers of imported barley with locally grown barley.
“This will create a stable market for barley producers in Gauteng, Limpopo, North West, and Western Cape,” she said.
The project also increases demand for irrigated barley, benefiting emerging and commercial farmers.
Largest Soufflet Investment in Africa
This is Soufflet Malt’s largest African investment and its second malting facility on the continent after Ethiopia.
The facility will be the most technologically advanced malthouse in South Africa. In addition, it will produce 50% fewer emissions than the industry average by using trigeneration.
Malt will be transferred via conveyors to Heineken’s brewery, which reduces transport costs and emissions.
Supporting Farmers with Training and Funding
Soufflet Malt CEO Jorge Solis said the project strengthens the agricultural and brewing value chain.
He added that the company trains and mentors emerging and commercial farmers. This helps them grow high-quality barley at scale.
In addition, Heineken and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) provide grants and interest-free loans to help farmers buy equipment.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
The facility will contribute R750 million annually to South Africa’s agricultural GDP. It will support 200–250 farms across 30,000–35,000 hectares of barley cultivation.
Once completed, it will create 55 direct jobs and 200–300 indirect jobs in farming, logistics, and related sectors.
A Commitment to Sustainable Brewing
Heineken Beverages MD Jordi Borrut said the project aligns with the company’s Brew a Better World strategy.
He added that sourcing barley locally and producing malt on-site reduces imports, lowers emissions, and builds a stronger supply chain.
Soufflet Malt President Guillaume Couture said the investment reflects confidence in South Africa’s agriculture and brewing sectors and a commitment to long-term development.
