Following a recent epidemic of avian influenza in Brazil, there is rising anxiety in South Africa’s poultry sector about a possible blanket ban on poultry imports from that nation. The Association of Meat Importers and Exporters (AMIE) has expressed strong objection to the proposed move, warning that it could affect both the sector and South African consumers. AMIE is pushing the South African government to take a more strategic and region-specific approach rather than completely cutting off imports from Brazil, South Africa’s major supplier of imported chicken.
The proposal to halt chicken imports from Brazil has gathered support among groups concerned about the bird flu spreading to South Africa. The campaign for a ban aims to protect local chicken farms and ensure the health of the domestic flock. However, AMIE contends that a complete suspension of imports may cause more harm than benefit. According to the group, countries such as Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the Philippines have already responded to Brazil’s outbreak by prohibiting imports from contaminated regions rather than the entire country.
Imameleng Mothebe, the CEO of AMIE, warned that an outright ban on Brazilian poultry imports would significantly disrupt South Africa’s poultry supply chain. She highlighted that imported poultry products, particularly those from Brazil, play a crucial role in bridging the country’s poultry consumption gap. Furthermore, the availability of imported chicken ensures healthy market competition, which helps keep prices affordable for consumers. “Chicken is the most affordable source of protein for many South Africans, especially the poor. A blanket ban could drive prices up and threaten national food security,” Mothebe stated.
Statistics underscore Brazil’s critical role in South Africa’s poultry market. Over the past year, Brazil has accounted for 92% of all mechanically deboned meat (MDM) imported into South Africa, averaging about 18,000 metric tonnes per month. Additionally, Brazil supplies around 73% of all other poultry products brought into the country. MDM is a key ingredient used in processed meat products, and South Africa currently does not have domestic facilities to produce it commercially. AMIE emphasized that there are no viable alternative markets that can fill the gap if Brazilian imports are entirely cut off.
AMIE advocates for a regionalisation strategy, whereby poultry imports from unaffected parts of Brazil can continue while suspending those from regions hit by avian flu. This approach, according to the association, aligns with international best practices and would enable South Africa to maintain a stable supply of safe poultry products without compromising biosecurity.
Mothebe also raised concerns over the government’s delayed efforts in reopening other poultry import channels from countries that previously experienced outbreaks but have since recovered. Markets in France, some U.S. states, and the Netherlands remain closed to South Africa, further tightening the poultry supply and placing financial strain on consumers. She reaffirmed the association’s willingness to cooperate with authorities, stating, “We are committed to working with the government to find a balanced and sustainable solution that protects public health while also ensuring food affordability and security in South Africa.”
In conclusion, as South Africa navigates the complexities of managing disease threats while maintaining food supply chains, the government is being called upon to adopt a measured, data-driven response that avoids unintended economic and social consequences.
