South Africa

South Africa, which has zones free of FMD without vaccination, faces growing calls from producers to declare a “state of disaster” to mitigate the economic fallout.

The deal, announced on July 10, is expected to reinforce vaccine production and disease response capabilities across sub-Saharan Africa, although financial terms remain undisclosed.

The resurgence is expected to renew pressure on South Africa’s agricultural and veterinary systems, especially with the industry still reeling from the effects of last year’s mass culling.

In response, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has ordered over 900,000 doses of FMD vaccines, with the first batch expected to arrive next week.

The rollout centres on KAROO Wild, a line of dog treats crafted with lean, hypoallergenic, sustainably sourced antelope, a novel protein rooted in South Africa’s rich game meat heritage.

The move allows the company to reorganise under legal protection as it battles to secure emergency funding and stave off collapse.

Brazil accounts for around 84% of South Africa’s total poultry imports and supplies a staggering 92% of all mechanically deboned meat (MDM) brought into the country.

The company, owned by the government’s Public Investment Corporation (PIC), is reported to be in deep financial distress, which has led to a breakdown in basic animal care.

The suspension is particularly significant given that China is South Africa’s top destination for beef exports by volume.

With the new space, the Animal Nutrition division will extend its offerings of raw materials and specialised ingredients to the ruminant, swine, pet food, and aquaculture markets.