BSE testing move will see South Africa become valuable beef market

SOUTH Africa will become a valuable market for Irish beef following Ireland’s move to bring BSE testing requirements into line with those of the EU in regard to RSA-bound exports.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney has welcomed the South African authorities’ decision to welcome further imports from Ireland, following representations from his Department and the Irish Embassy, Pretoria.

For the purposes of trade with South Africa, the minimum age for BSE testing of healthy cattle slaughtered for human consumption will be increased from 48 months to 72 months. The South African decision corresponds with the rise in the age of BSE testing for intra-community trade which has been in effect since July 1 of this year.

The minister highlighted the importance of the Republic of South Africa as a key non-EU market for Irish beef and offal. “This positive decision removes a significant technical barrier for our beef exporters and should also help to reduce their costs and alleviate any associated administrative burdens. This good news follows on foot of last month’s decision by the Russian Federation, another critical third country market for Irish beef, to align their BSE testing requirements with those of the EU.”