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) to address the logistics, port and regulatory challenges affecting South Africa’s meat trade.
In terms of the agreement, the organisations will identify recurring supply chain constraints, exchange industry data and develop proposals for engagement with government and other stakeholders on issues including port operations, border processes, veterinary and sanitary requirements, market access, rail and road connectivity and supply chain resilience, the organisations said.
“Logistics is fundamental to food security, trade competitiveness and economic growth,” SAFLA Vice-Chairperson Jonathan McDonald said. “This MoC gives SAFLA and AMIE SA a stronger platform to engage constructively with government agencies and work with them to resolve issues that affect cargo flow, costs and reliability.”
Efficient certification, inspection processes and improved coordination between government authorities and the private sector are essential to unlocking export opportunities, according to AMIE SA Chief Executive Paul Matthew.
Delays in market access processes and veterinary approvals can result in overseas buyers sourcing meat from competing suppliers while animal health events remain a risk to international trade, the organisations said.
South Africa exported approximately 81 000 tonnes of red meat, including beef, sheep and goat meat, worth about R63 billion between 2025 and May 2026, according to SAFLA. The figures highlight the sector’s export potential despite disease-related and administrative constraints, SAFLA said.
Cold chain capacity, container handling, inspection coordination and the release of consignments remain operational pressure points at the Port of Durban despite improvements in infrastructure and equipment, SAFLA and AMIE SA said.
The partnership will support industry engagement with government on practical measures to improve supply chain performance and strengthen the competitiveness of South Africa’s meat trade, the organisations pointed out.
