According to the Beefmaster Group, one of the country’s leading beef producers and exporters, the continued spread of the disease highlights both enforcement gaps and the increasing strain on those trying to stay afloat in a challenging economic climate.

“We understand why some in the industry are taking risks to move cattle despite restrictions. If there isn’t a market for your animals and you see an opportunity to sell, you’re going to try. But this is economic suicide for the entire industry,” says Roelie van Reenen, supply chain executive at Beefmaster Group.

Price volatility and loss of market confidence

He says beef and weaner prices have shown extreme volatility, driven by heightened uncertainty affecting consumers, beef producers, and primary producers. The outbreak of FMD has exacerbated the situation.

“There are no winners in this circumstance. Without the industry working together, we risk losing market share both locally and abroad, due to a loss of confidence in the South African red meat industry,” says Van Reenen.

He adds that the international market is looking for a consistent supply of beef. South Africa recently lost access to the Chinese export market due to FMD.

Call for vigilance and cooperation

Van Reenen says that South African beef players cannot afford to become complacent.

The government recently announced its intention to implement stricter biosecurity measures for livestock with cloven hooves – a step welcomed by Beefmaster. However, Van Reenen emphasises that policy alone won’t be enough.

“Outbreaks have been continuing, and the threat remains imminent. We need proper enforcement of existing protocols and clear directives on controlling livestock movement in addition to cooperation from all in the industry to limit the spread of the disease."

Vaccine access: a critical priority

Van Reenen adds that there is also uncertainty regarding the availability and supply of vaccines, which is a serious issue.

“Without vaccines, we are fighting a wildfire with no water. Access to vaccines must be prioritised if we’re serious about protecting the national herd and the economy.”

The government recently announced a significant increase in vaccine supplies in KwaZulu-Natal in a bid to combat the ongoing outbreak of the disease.

Misconceptions around biosecurity

Van Reenen adds that while biosecurity has been a topic of discussion for some time, there are misconceptions as to what it entails. “Effective biosecurity starts at the farm gate. Any level of complacency, especially the belief that geographic location protects one from risk, is misguided. As industry players, we must recognise the seriousness of the problem and act accordingly.”

Van Reenen calls on all role players to act in the collective interest of the sector.

“Survival in the short term cannot come at the cost of long-term destruction. We recognise that the impact has already been devastating for some, but if we don’t act decisively now, it will be even more catastrophic for the entire beef industry and South Africa’s broader agricultural economy.”

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