The Saudi Arabian government has lifted a 21-year ban on South African meat imports.
On Thursday, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SAFDA) said it would lift the ban that has been in place on meat and red meat imports since 2002 after it held successful inspections in South African abattoirs and feedlots in June.
The inspection ensured that meat products complied with Saudi Arabian market access protocols and halaal certification.
The South African Saudi Business Council (SASBC) co-chairperson, Stravos Nicolaou, told News24 issues relating to veterinary and halaal certification were the reasons behind the ban.
Nicolaou said, “We had certain halaal procedural issues that needed to be addressed. The ban first emanated 21 years ago after the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. The Department of Agriculture had to ensure veterinary certification was obtained to ensure that the ban was lifted as well.”
He added the SASBC welcomed the lifting of the ban and the opportunity for South African meat producers in a sizeable market.
READ | Shisa Nyama Index shows SA food price increases are slowing down
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel said South African meat producers are now allowed to participate in a huge, global halaal meat industry.
During a state visit in October last year, Patel and Agriculture Minister Thoko Didiza met with Saudi Arabian Investment Minister Khalid Al Falih, and members of the South African meat industry.
A task team was formed to facilitate access for meat and red meat products from South Africa into Saudi Arabia.
During the visit, the governments signed 16 agreements worth more than R270 billion, including deals on renewable energy, industry, mining, tourism, and logistic sectors.
News24 reported that a new export deal had also been struck between the two governments with plans to export up to 1 000 tonnes of meat per year to Saudi Arabia.
In a statement, Patel said: “South Africa already has a strong presence in markets like the United Arab Emirates and Malaysia. The Saudi market is valued at over $5 billion. South Africa offers a premium quality meat product, and we look forward to exporting our meat products.”
Didiza said the move attests to the safety of South African beef, intact biosecurity as well as the compliant state of South African abattoirs, and feedlots.
She said there is also hope that market access will be granted to poultry imports.