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South Africa|Labour Relations|Sugar|UASA|KwaZulu-Natal
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south-africa|labour-relations|sugar|uasa|kwazulu-natal

UASA to embark on protected strike in sugar industry

14th August 2026

By: Schalk Burger

Creamer Media Senior Deputy Editor

     

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Labour union UASA says its members in the sugar industry will embark on a protected strike scheduled to start on August 15 in KwaZulu-Natal.

UASA's wage negotiations on behalf of its members in the sugar industry, which started in February, have reached a deadlock after organised labour and employers failed to reach agreement on improved wages and benefits for workers.

Following the deadlock, a certificate of non-resolution was issued, which enabled labour to issue a strike notice. In a subsequent ballot, the majority of workers voted in favour of industrial action.

The decision to embark on a protected strike action was not taken lightly and strike action remains a measure of last resort, the union states.

South Africa's economic environment is challenging and continues to place pressure on workers and their families.

Rising costs associated with food, fuel, electricity, transport and housing have widened the gap between household income and living expenses, which makes it increasingly difficult for workers to meet their basic needs, support their families and build financial security.

Workers who dedicate their labour, skills and time to sustaining the sugar industry deserve wages that provide a decent standard of living and recognise the value of their contribution.

UASA urges all members participating in the strike to conduct themselves peacefully, responsibly and within the law, while remaining vigilant throughout the industrial action.

“UASA remains committed to the collective bargaining process and firmly believes it is the most effective mechanism through which workers can secure fair and sustainable improvements to wages, benefits and working conditions.

“The union, therefore, calls on employers in the sugar industry to return to the negotiating table in good faith and engage constructively on wage and benefit proposals that reflect the economic realities facing workers.”

Edited by Chanel de Bruyn
Creamer Media Online Managing Editor

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