Originally processed as a wild crop by local indigenous tribes and Dutch settlers, Rooibos started to become a commercially viable crop in the early 20th century because of the pioneering work of a range of farmers and agricultural experts in the area.
The Rooibos Control Board was established in South Africa in 1954 to manage the quality of Rooibos and export Rooibos to foreign markets. In 1993, the Rooibos Control Board was privatised and Rooibos Ltd was officially established.
With 250 of the 300 commercial Rooibos farms contracted to Rooibos Ltd, the latter holds a global market share of 70% and is the preferred raw material supplier to all major brands and factories globally.
Rooibos Ltd is also the founding member of the South African Rooibos Tea Council and holds the role of Chairman to the council.