NAMIBIA – Namibia’s cattle export sector is experiencing a downturn, with a reported 24.3% decrease in total exports year-on-year as of August 2024. 

Recent figures indicate that the primary factor behind this decline is diminished demand from South Africa, which has seen its cattle imports from Namibia drop by 26.8% during the same timeframe.

Data from the Livestock and Livestock Product Board (LLPB) reveals that this downturn is part of broader challenges affecting the cattle industry, where overall marketing activities fell by 17.3% compared to the previous year and 16.4% from the previous month.

As of the end of August 2024, Namibia had marketed 278,195 cattle, an increase from 210,807 during the same period in 2023. 

However, the sheep sector is also struggling, with marketing numbers down 26.5% compared to last year.

The reduction in slaughtering activity has impacted both export-approved and local abattoirs, leading to a 54.2% decline. 

Demand from South Africa has weakened by 18.7%, contributing to the decrease. 

By August 2024, only 48,232 sheep were marketed, a sharp decline from the 65,651 sheep marketed in August 2023.

Lamb and mutton exports have also taken a hit, falling by 17.3% year-on-year due to lower slaughter rates. 

Meanwhile, the goat sector reported a slight decline, with 13,825 goats marketed in August 2024, representing a 0.9% decrease in year-to-date figures.

In contrast, the pork industry is seeing an upward trend. Pig slaughter rose by 13.2% year-on-year, with 4,171 pigs processed in August 2024. 

The Pork Market Share Promotion Scheme is actively supporting local producers in retaining a significant market presence, despite a high dependence on imports from Germany and South Africa.

Amid these challenges, Namibia is seeking to expand its meat industry. Recently, it has been reported that the country is looking into obtaining Halal certification for its meat products to tap into the lucrative Middle Eastern market. 

This move comes as access to European markets becomes more restricted due to new regulations.

Emma Haiyambo, the director of research and financial sector development at the Bank of Namibia, shared these insights during the 25th Annual Bank of Namibia Symposium in Windhoek. 

The symposium addressed how Namibia’s agricultural sector could promote inclusive development through improved value chains.

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