A BREAKTHROUGH in export negotiations with Egypt is set to deliver a significant boost to South Africa’s red meat industry, according to the Minister of Agriculture, Willie Aucamp. The minister announced this at the Agri North West Congress on 3 September 2026.
“This is a major milestone for South Africa’s agricultural sector, which has been facing one of the biggest foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks in decades,” said Aucamp. “I sat with my team on Monday and emphasised that we have to get this right as our red meat farmers need this, and I am pleased that the team made it happen.”
South Africa and Egypt have successfully concluded negotiations on the Veterinary Health Certificate (VHC) governing the export of red meat from South Africa to Egypt.
This paves the way for South African beef and livestock producers to access Egypt’s substantial consumer market. Shipments will be cleared to move once the final signatures have been formally appended to the agreement.
Minister Aucamp thanked the negotiating team for its efforts, emphasising that government’s role is to support and enable the agricultural sector to succeed, rather than be a stumbling block.
“The outcome of these negotiations was achieved through constructive engagement with the Egyptian veterinary authorities. Government remains committed to strengthening international trade relations and expanding market access opportunities for South Africa’s red meat sector,” said Aucamp.
He highlighted that the agreement is aligned with government’s apex priority of inclusive economic growth and job creation, while supporting efforts to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of the agricultural sector.
The finalisation of the VHC will give South African exporters a clear regulatory framework for accessing the Egyptian market, while ensuring they meet the necessary animal health and food safety requirements.
According to the Department of Agriculture, this is significant opportunity for South African red meat producers and processors to expand their operations, diversify export destinations and grow their contribution to the economy.
“Every international market South Africa opens creates an opportunity for money to flow back into the rural economy and build commerce along our value chains,” the minister added.
