Negotiations between South Africa and the USA with regard to trade related to exports of poultry, beef and pork meat from the USA to South Africa
Negotiations between South Africa and the USA on key areas related to the importation of poultry, beef and pork from the USA to South Africa were concluded at the meeting of the 6th January 2016. Both negotiating sides concluded with positive sentiments.
With regard to pork, on the importation of shoulder cuts, South Africa has agreed to permit the unrestricted importation of the shoulder cuts after the USA agreed to apply mitigation measures including the removal of risk material before exportation to South Africa.
On beef, South Africa had already agreed to import beef from the USA, however, the USA requested to be permitted to import livestock from third countries for direct slaughter and the meat thereof to be exported to South Africa. The USA has given guarantees that livestock imported from third countries for further export of the products thereof to ensure compliance with the USA domestic requirements. South Africa has agreed to the assurances given by the USA.
In relation to poultry, two issues were under consideration, namely Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and Salmonella. Firstly on HPAI, after robust discussions between the authorities, an agreed Avian Influenza protocol for safe trade of poultry and poultry products was concluded in November 2015. The protocol will ensure that appropriate scientific measures are taken by the USA to ensure that the risk of transmission of HPAI to South African poultry is managed.
Secondly on Salmonella, the USA requested South Africa to reconsider its application of the Procedure Manual on Microbial Monitoring of Imported Meat. According to the Manual, all imported poultry products are tested for microbiological contamination which includes Salmonella and other conditions at the port of entry before they are released into the market. South Africa imports from over 3000 establishments across the world, and the testing requirements apply to all these establishments.
After intense negotiations, and the review of the USA food laws, South Africa has agreed to, for the first three months, risk profile all consignments imported from USA export establishments. Thereafter, a revised statistically risk-based sampling plan will be implemented. South Africa will sample and test all consignments for compliance. The Department of Health will monitor these products after release from ports on entry.
Enquiries:
Sidwell Medupe
Tel: 012 394 1650
Cell: 079 492 1774
E-mail: MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za
