SAFLA, AMIE SA unite on meat trade

by SAVIOUS KWINIKA
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – THE South African Freight and Logistics Association (SAFLA) and the Association of Meat Importers and Exporters of South Africa (AMIE SA) have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) aimed at improving the efficiency, reliability and competitiveness of South Africa’s meat trade.

The agreement establishes a framework for the two organisations to work together on logistics, port operations and regulatory challenges that continue to hinder the movement of meat products through the country’s supply chains.

By sharing evidence and developing practical proposals, the partners hope to strengthen engagement with government and other stakeholders on issues ranging from border processes and veterinary requirements to rail connectivity, market access and supply-chain resilience.

SAFLA Vice Chairman Jonathan McDonald said logistics plays a pivotal role in food security, trade competitiveness and economic growth.

He said the agreement would enable the organisations to present a united, evidence-based industry voice while working constructively with government to address bottlenecks affecting cargo flow, costs and operational reliability.

AMIE SA Chief Executive Officer Paul Matthew said South Africa already has the production capacity and access to international markets needed to expand meat exports.

However, he stressed that unlocking this potential depends on better coordination between government departments, more efficient certification and inspection processes, and stronger collaboration with the private sector.

He noted that delays in veterinary approvals and market-access procedures could prompt overseas buyers to source products elsewhere, while animal-health outbreaks continue to highlight the need for robust traceability systems and internationally recognised disease-control measures.

Matthew also rejected the notion that exports undermine domestic affordability, arguing that access to export markets allows producers to maximise the value of the entire carcass, supporting both industry sustainability and local consumer access to affordable protein.

According to AMIE SA, South Africa exported approximately 81,000 tonnes of red meat worth about R6.3 billion between 2025 and May 2026, despite disease-related and administrative challenges.

The country’s freight-forwarding sector, valued at an estimated R81 billion in 2025, coordinates more than 80% of South Africa’s international trade.

Both organisations believe the partnership will help transform persistent logistical challenges into coordinated action, strengthening supply-chain performance and supporting long-term growth across the meat industry.

– CAJ News