Ostrich exports strengthened

Masiphula Mbongwa, DG of the National Department of Agriculture, Provincial of Agriculture and the Agriculture Research Council (ARC) have met with the South African Ostrich Business Chamber (SAOBC)’s Anton Kruger to ensure the industry continues to dominate exports to the EU. This follows last year’s unfounded rumours that an EU ban on local animal products had affected ostrich exports. It was decided to develop market monitoring techniques, establish a dedicated veterinary unit to service the industry, and review the management of diagnostic services to improve lead times on diagnostic information. The industry employs 20 000 people, produces 90% of all feathers, leather and meat exported to the EU and is an important sector in the Western, Eastern and Northern Cape provinces. – Staff reporter