Eastern Cape Lobster Project Secures R2.8m to Boost Exports

Eastern Cape Lobster Project Secures R2.8m to Boost Exports. Seven lobster-farming cooperatives in Port St Johns are set to expand production and scale exports following a R2.8 million investment from the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) into the Tsweleni Rock Lobster Project.

The funding is earmarked to support production growth, improve product quality, and prepare the operation for broader international sales in the upcoming fishing season. Of the total investment, R1.7 million was allocated to a new 10-tank lobster holding facility, while the OR Tambo District Municipality contributed a 12-metre freezing unit. These facilities preserve lobster quality by keeping them alive in seawater pools that mimic their natural habitat until sale or transport.

The remaining funds will cover operational costs, including stock, salaries, security, electrical upgrades, transport logistics, and fishing permits, according to Fikile Mzinyati, ECDC Acting Manager for Financial Incentives and Business Support

Operating under the Singabalobi Secondary Cooperative, the seven primary cooperatives — Lower Luphoko, ALBZ Industries, Manxokweni, Ndluzula, Rhebu, Nxonxa, and Mhadini — produced 1.8 tonnes of lobster in 2025, exporting 370 kg of live lobster to Asian markets such as Hong Kong and Taiwan. Through a joint venture, RS Foods, with aggregator Rekaseed, the cooperatives manage commercial operations and aim to secure international export certifications.

For 2026, the project anticipates a 7-tonne harvest, primarily sold as frozen lobster. “Although frozen lobster generates lower revenues than live exports, it has a longer shelf life and provides more flexibility in accessing markets,” Mzinyati explained. Plans also include diversifying into other fish species, expanding the holding facility, and introducing seafood processing at the site.

In February, a German delegation visited Port St Johns as part of a Seafood Sourcing Mission, conducted with ECDC, to connect emerging producers with European buyers and assess export readiness.

Rekaseed director Duncan Sejosengoe noted: “The work we are doing restores dignity and economic agency to local fishing communities. Completing the seafood value chain is not only a milestone for our business but also for the communities we serve.”