SOUTH AFRICA – The Association of Meat Importers and Exporters (AMIE) has expressed alarm over prolonged delays in processing meat import permits, following new requirements imposed by the Border Management Agency (BMA).
Previously, permits were issued within two days, but importers now face wait times of eight to nine days due to updated regulations introduced by the BMA earlier this year.
Among the changes is a requirement for veterinary inspectors to be present during the unsealing of 35% to 45% of containers before samples can be taken for testing.
This adjustment, according to AMIE, has significantly slowed down operations.
In response, AMIE is urging authorities to either increase inspection capacity or return to the previous system until sufficient resources are available to manage the increased workload.
The association argues that the BMA’s requirement should be based on a clear risk assessment using measurable criteria.
However, AMIE claims that, in practice, the new rules are being enforced unilaterally, leaving importers in the dark about the criteria being used.
This uncertainty has hampered companies’ ability to manage their imports effectively, particularly when it comes to essential food products.
Earlier this year, AMIE successfully challenged the BMA in court, with the ruling affirming that any new measures must follow a proper risk assessment.
The judgment also emphasized the importance of having consistent policies across all ports to prevent trade bottlenecks.
With the festive season approaching, a critical time for trade, AMIE warns that delays at key ports, especially Durban, are driving up costs, which consumers ultimately have to absorb.
The association adds that these delays are also contributing to the overall rise in food prices.
AMIE CEO Imameleng Mothebe highlighted that congestion at the ports was already a problem before the new measures were introduced.
She further pointed out that poor coordination between agencies like the BMA and the South African Police Service (SAPS) has exacerbated the situation, calling for urgent action to resolve these issues.
Mothebe, who took over as CEO in May, brings more than 20 years of experience in corporate affairs, economic development, and sector skills planning.
She previously worked as the director of industry development for agro-processing at the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition.
Her focus at AMIE is on maintaining a balance between domestic production capacity and ensuring that all South Africans, especially those from marginalized communities, have access to affordable food.
Mothebe succeeded Paul Matthew, who stepped down from the role earlier this year.
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