RMIS NEWS

RMIS | University of Pretoria | Zoetis

Pretoria, South Africa – Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS), in collaboration with the University of Pretoria and Zoetis, just launched a research initiative to investigate one of the red meat industry’s most costly challenges: the economic impact of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) virus persistence in slaughtered cattle.

The study, “Evidence-Based Risk Reduction for FMD Virus Persistence at Slaughter”, will generate the scientific evidence required to revise current slaughter regulations that impose blanket restrictions on meat from FMD-recovered cattle. These restrictions are not only outdated but also result in significant wastage, especially of offal and other by-products, causing financial strain across the red meat value chain.

Led by Professor Armanda Bastos from the Faculty of Veterinary Science at the University of Pretoria, the expected outcomes include:

• Phase 1A: Determine if deboning is necessary at 15 days post-Day Zero and quantify carrier prevalence
• Phase 1B: Identify virus persistence sites in heads, glands, and offal to guide safe trade and policy revision
• Phase 2: Develop a serological test to distinguish carriers from recovered animals, as a critical first step to development of pen-side screening tests
• Phase 3: Assess the impact of different vaccines on virus clearance

The project, along with eight others, is a direct response to RMIS’s Field to Future framework, an industry-informed process to identify the real-world challenges faced by farmers, feedlots, abattoirs, and other value chain stakeholders.

“This is one of the most important research investments RMIS will make,” said Dewald Olivier, CEO of RMIS. “Foot-and-Mouth Disease continues to cost the red meat industry millions in lost value every year because of outdated regulations that don’t reflect current science. This research is about changing that, to protect the livelihoods of every role player in the red meat value chain.”

Prof Armanda Bastos, Director of the Hans Hoheisen Research Centre in the Kruger National Park stressed that: “The research showcases the rapid strides that can be made when different sectors pool expertise and resources to address the wide-reaching regulatory impacts of FMD. It will set a new benchmark for evidence-led, rapid response to the SAT-type virus outbreaks.”

Dr Ralf J. Patzelt, Business Unit Director, Livestock at Zoetis, shared the following:

“As the world’s leading animal health company, we are fully committed to the wellbeing and sustainability of the red meat industry in South Africa. By sponsoring this crucial research project together with the University of Pretoria and the Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS) we are demonstrating our dedication to supporting everyone involved in the red meat value chain, from producers and feedlots to processors and marketers.”

“Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) poses significant challenges to the industry, leading to extensive losses and threatening livelihoods. Our support for this study reflects our determination to help the industry find science-based solutions that minimise wastage, strengthen regulatory confidence, and safeguard trade credibility. We believe that investing in evidence-based FMD risk management is essential for the future resilience and growth of South Africa’s livestock sector.”

“Through this sponsorship, we reaffirm our commitment to partnership, innovation, and the advancement of animal health. Together, we aim to reduce unnecessary losses caused by FMD and contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for all stakeholders in the red meat industry.”

Want to learn more about the research RMIS funds?
https://rmis.co.za/research/

RMIS Showcases Phase 2 of its Traceability Platform – Integration of several livestock management systems to capture and share movement data

PRETORIA, South Africa – The Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS) officially rolled out Phase 2 of the RMIS Traceability Platform today, bringing South Africa’s red meat industry closer to full livestock traceability that will improve disease response and support market access.

The event attended by the Minister of Agriculture, Mr. John Steenhuisen, along with representatives from organised agriculture and other key stakeholders, showcased the practical functionality of the platform across the value chain. From capturing Global Location Numbers (GLNs) within existing integrated systems, to sharing movement data, generating traceability reports, and enabling disease tracking across the value chain.

To encourage inclusivity, RMIS also introduced the RMIS Movement App — a free, user-friendly tool developed for producers who are not yet using digital livestock management systems.

New in Phase 2

Phase 2 introduces API integration between the RMIS Traceability Platform and several digital livestock management systems used across the value chain. These include:

• Farm-level: Benguelasoft, Logix, AIMS, Datamars
• Auction: FlexiAuction
• Feedlot: Gigalot, Pointr Software
• Abattoir: Matrix Software

For the first time, these systems can securely share animal movement data in a standardised format with producers’ consent and without requiring them to use additional systems for traceability or duplicate capturing of data.

A list of integrated livestock management systems is available on the RMIS website at https://rmis.co.za/services/traceability/. As more systems become connected, the list will be updated to help producers identify which platforms support traceability integration.

Addressing Industry Challenges

With the launch of Phase 2, the RMIS Traceability Platform now offers practical solutions to some of the industry’s most persistent challenges:

• Abattoir-level traceability: Carcasses can now be tracked back to their origin.
• Export compliance: Enhanced data integrity strengthens compliance with export market protocols, supporting South Africa’s market access.
• Improved disease response: The platform helps trace outbreaks more quickly, giving the industry faster insight into where and how diseases are spreading.

Disease Control & Biosecurity Tools Now Built In

The platform now also includes features developed during the recent Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreaks:

• A Public FMD CaseMap showing confirmed FMD cases: rmis.co.za/disease-incidents
• Automatic WhatsApp alerts for registered users within a 10 km radius of a reported outbreak.

These tools aim to improve the industry’s ability to respond to outbreaks and manage movement restrictions more effectively.

Introducing the RMIS App

To support inclusivity, RMIS also unveiled the RMIS Movement App, a user-friendly tool designed for producers who are not yet using a digital livestock management system.

The app enables any registered production unit to record animal movements directly from their Global Location Number (GLN). It is focused solely on movement recording, not production data, and forms part of RMIS’s goal to build an inclusive and accessible national traceability network.

The RMIS Movement App will be available for Android users via the Google Play Store and iOS by the end of the year. It will be completely free, ensuring access across all sectors of the red meat value chain.

Aligned with the 2030 Red Meat Vision

The platform is a cornerstone of the Red Meat Industry Strategy 2030, addressing one of the sector’s biggest gaps, the absence of unified traceability. Phase 2 lays the foundation for real-time disease control, reliable export certifications and inclusive participation across all producer levels, helping South Africa’s red meat value chain become more responsive, secure, and future-ready

Livestock plays a vital role in South Africa’s agricultural economy, providing meat, milk, wool, and income for farmers nationwide. Understanding livestock fundamentals from breeds and animal health to welfare and market dynamics is essential for improving productivity, ensuring sustainability, and maintaining ethical, profitable farming practices in 2025 and beyond.

Understanding Livestock Breeds

Selecting the right livestock breeds is the foundation of a productive and sustainable farming operation. Each breed offers unique traits that influence growth rate, adaptability, and product quality — whether for meat, milk, wool, or breeding purposes. In South Africa, farmers typically choose between indigenous and commercial breeds, depending on climate, resources, and market goals.

Indigenous breeds, such as Nguni cattle or Boer goats, are naturally resilient to local diseases, harsh weather, and limited grazing conditions. They require lower maintenance and are ideal for extensive or small-scale farming systems. 

Commercial breeds, like Angus cattle or Dorper sheep, often yield higher production outputs but need closer management, balanced feed, and controlled environments.

When selecting a breed, farmers should consider:

1. Climate adaptability – suitability to local weather and grazing conditions.
2. Feed efficiency – how effectively the animal converts feed into weight or milk.
3. Market demand – preferences for certain meat or wool types.
4. Disease resistance – the ability to thrive with minimal veterinary intervention.

Ultimately, matching breed genetics with farm conditions ensures higher productivity, lower losses, and stronger returns — forming the basis of a profitable livestock enterprise.

Animal Health Management

Effective animal health management is critical to maintaining productivity, profitability, and animal welfare within any livestock operation. Healthy animals grow faster, reproduce efficiently, and produce better-quality meat, milk, and fibre — all of which directly impact farm income and sustainability.

A proactive approach focuses on prevention rather than treatment. This includes regular vaccinations, deworming, and tick control to protect against common diseases such as foot-and-mouth, lumpy skin disease, and heartwater. Maintaining clean housing areas, fresh water supplies, and proper waste management also reduces infection risks.

Farmers should develop a health management plan with a qualified veterinarian that includes:

1. Routine health checks – early detection of illness or stress.
2. Vaccination schedules – based on regional disease patterns.
3. Nutritional balance – providing the right feed and mineral supplements.
4. Biosecurity measures – limiting contact with outside animals to prevent disease spread.

Monitoring weight, appetite, and behaviour can provide early warning signs of health issues. Prompt response and record-keeping ensure traceability and effective management.

By prioritising animal health, farmers not only safeguard their herds but also enhance overall farm performance, market value, and long-term sustainability in South Africa’s livestock industry.

Also learn about: Red Meat Industry in SA: Everything You Need to Know

Livestock Welfare Principles 

Maintaining high livestock welfare standards is not only an ethical responsibility but also a key factor in ensuring productivity and product quality. Animals that are healthy, comfortable, and stress-free perform better, reproduce more efficiently, and deliver higher yields — strengthening both farm reputation and profitability.

South Africa’s livestock producers are increasingly guided by the “Five Freedoms” of animal welfare, which provide the foundation for ethical farming practices:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst 

• Ensuring constant access to clean water and nutritious feed.
  

2. Freedom from discomfort 

• Providing suitable shelter and resting areas.
  

3. Freedom from pain, injury, or disease 

• Through prompt treatment and preventive care.
  

4. Freedom to express normal behaviour 

• Allowing adequate space and social interaction.
  

5. Freedom from fear and distress 

• Ensuring calm handling and humane treatment.

Good welfare practices extend across all stages of livestock management, from feeding and housing to transport and slaughter. Proper training for handlers, use of non-aggressive equipment, and minimising stress during loading and transport are vital.

By adhering to these welfare principles, farmers build trust with consumers and contribute to a more sustainable and responsible livestock industry in South Africa.

Also read: Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Animals in SA

Market Basics & Economic Outlook

Understanding the livestock market is essential for farmers aiming to stay competitive and profitable in 2025. Livestock prices are influenced by a combination of production costs, consumer demand, export activity, and seasonal trends. Farmers who monitor these factors can make informed decisions about when to sell, restock, or expand.

The market operates primarily through auctions, abattoirs, and direct supply contracts, each offering different advantages in terms of pricing and convenience. Prices are often benchmarked using live and carcass values published by organisations like RMIS, which tracks real-time data on beef, lamb, and pork prices across South Africa.

Key price drivers include:

1. Feed and fuel costs – rising input expenses increase production costs.
2. Weather patterns – drought or heavy rainfall affect grazing and feed availability.
3. Export demand – international markets influence domestic supply and pricing.
4. Consumer spending power – economic shifts affect meat consumption trends.

Looking ahead, South Africa’s livestock market is expected to remain stable but cost-sensitive, with gradual recovery tied to improved rainfall and consistent consumer demand. Farmers who combine efficient production with market insight will be best positioned to thrive in the evolving agricultural landscape.

Conclusion

A strong understanding of livestock breeds, health, welfare, and market dynamics is essential for sustainable and profitable farming in South Africa. By adopting ethical practices, prioritising animal wellbeing, and staying informed on market trends, farmers can enhance productivity while contributing to a more resilient and responsible agricultural future.

Stay informed and empowered with accurate livestock insights from RMIS. Access up-to-date data, pricing trends, and expert analysis to make smarter farming decisions. Contact us for personalised reports, advisory support, and real-time updates shaping South Africa’s livestock industry.

Red Meat Prices in South Africa are shifting in 2025 as supply, demand, and biosecurity pressures reshape the market. Producers, processors, retailers, and consumers all feel the impact. This article explains key drivers, recent trends, and what to watch, helping stakeholders plan with greater confidence and respond proactively to volatility.

Why Red Meat Prices Matter

Red meat prices play a vital role in South Africa’s economy and daily life. As one of the country’s most consumed protein sources, fluctuations in beef, lamb, and pork prices directly affect household budgets, consumer spending, and even national food security. When prices rise sharply, families often adjust their shopping habits — opting for cheaper cuts, smaller portions, or alternative proteins.

From an economic standpoint, red meat is a key indicator of agricultural health and market stability. Farmers depend on fair prices to sustain production, cover feed and transport costs, and reinvest in livestock operations. Retailers and butchers, in turn, must balance affordability with profitability while navigating changing demand patterns.

At a broader level, consistent price monitoring helps policymakers and businesses make informed decisions. It reveals underlying issues such as supply chain pressures, climate impacts, or trade fluctuations that could affect the entire food ecosystem.

In summary:

• Red meat prices reflect the economic health of the agricultural sector.
• They influence consumer affordability and purchasing trends.
• They help predict shifts in supply, demand, and production costs.

Understanding why red meat prices matter provides essential context for interpreting South Africa’s 2025 pricing trends.

Also read: Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Animals in SA

Core Drivers of 2025 Prices 

The red meat prices in South Africa for 2025 are being shaped by several interlinked economic and environmental factors. Understanding these drivers provides valuable insight into current and future market trends.

1. Feed & Fuel Costs

Feed remains the largest expense in livestock farming. Rising global grain and fuel prices have elevated production and transportation costs, leading to higher retail prices across beef, lamb, and pork.

2. Weather & Climate Conditions

Unpredictable rainfall patterns and drought conditions in key regions have reduced grazing capacity. Farmers have been forced to purchase supplementary feed, putting additional pressure on margins and meat supply.

3. Rand Exchange Rate

Currency fluctuations continue to impact input costs. A weaker rand increases the price of imported feed and veterinary supplies but boosts export competitiveness, creating local supply shortages.

4. Load Shedding & Logistics

Energy instability and transport inefficiencies have inflated cold-chain and delivery costs, affecting price consistency across provinces.

5. Global Demand & Exports

Strong export demand from the Middle East and Asia for premium cuts has limited domestic availability, driving up local market prices.

Collectively, these factors underscore how 2025’s red meat pricing trends are shaped by both domestic challenges and international market forces.

Also learn about: Red Meat Industry in SA: Everything You Need to Know

Red Meat Prices in South Africa 2025 

As of mid-2025, the A2 carcass beef price hovers around R 80–85/kg, reflecting moderate upward pressure from export demand and input costs. Retail beef cuts (e.g. sirloin, rump, chuck) show more variation, ranging between R 130 and R 220/kg, depending on region, grade, and cut. 

In the sheep meat sector, recovery in A-grade carcass prices has pushed averages to roughly R 75–80/kg, a 14.5 % increase over the past four months. Retail lamb prices mirror this trend, though with added premiums for high-end cuts.

Key observations:

• Carcass vs retail gap: The difference between A2 carcass and retail cuts remains significant (typically 50 %+), reflecting costs of processing, distribution, and wastage.
• Regional variation: Prices in remote or high-cost provinces (e.g. Northern Cape, some rural Eastern Cape zones) tend to be 5–10 % higher due to transport and cold-chain constraints.
• Year-on-year comparison: Compared to 2024, beef A2 has moved sideways to slightly upward, while sheep meat shows stronger relative gains.

Overall, 2025’s red meat price landscape balances tight export-driven demand with domestic cost pressures, making premium cuts especially sensitive to market dynamics.

For more detail on Red Meat Prices, use the following tool that will answer all your questions: RMIS Red Meat Prices

Market Outlook & Consumer Trends

The outlook for red meat prices in South Africa in late 2025 remains cautiously optimistic, with a mix of stabilising and inflationary trends expected. Industry forecasts suggest that beef and lamb prices will remain firm through the remainder of the year, supported by steady export demand and moderate herd rebuilding. However, rising feed and energy costs could keep production expenses elevated, preventing significant price relief for consumers.

From a consumer perspective, shifting behaviour is becoming increasingly evident:

1. Value-driven purchasing – Shoppers are opting for more affordable cuts, mince, or mixed packs rather than premium steak cuts.
   
2. Bulk buying and promotions – Retailers are seeing stronger uptake of special offers and monthly combo deals as households seek savings.
   
3. Protein substitution – A growing number of consumers are turning to chicken, plant-based proteins, or smaller meat portions to manage budgets.
   
4. Transparency demand – There’s heightened interest in traceability and ethical sourcing, with consumers preferring locally produced meat where possible.

In the long term, a balanced recovery in grazing conditions and stable inflation could bring gradual relief to both farmers and consumers. Still, price volatility will likely remain a key feature of South Africa’s red meat market heading into 2026.

Conclusion

In summary, red meat prices in South Africa in 2025 reflect a delicate balance between rising production costs, export demand, and shifting consumer behaviour. While prices remain relatively high, improved rainfall and stable market conditions could ease pressure over time, ensuring a more sustainable outlook for producers and consumers alike.

Stay informed with the latest red meat market insights and live pricing updates from RMIS. Our platform helps farmers, retailers, and consumers make data-driven decisions. Visit rmis.co.za or contact us for expert support, customised reports, and real-time industry data that keeps you ahead of the market.

The red meat industry plays a vital role in South Africa’s economy, food security, and rural development. Supporting thousands of farmers and value-chain partners, it faces both challenges and opportunities. By addressing health, sustainability, and market access, the industry can unlock long-term growth and resilience for the future.

The Role of the Red Meat Industry in South Africa

The red meat industry is a vital pillar of South Africa’s agricultural economy, shaping livelihoods, food systems, and trade. Its influence can be seen across several key areas:

1. Economic Contribution
   • Provides income for both commercial and communal farmers.
   • Supports thousands of jobs in farming, transport, abattoirs, processing, retail, and exports.
     
2. Food Security & Nutrition
   • Supplies affordable and accessible protein to millions of households.
   • Delivers essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
     
3. Rural Development
   • Strengthens rural economies by sustaining smallholder farmers.
   • Enables community resilience through livestock ownership and market participation.
     
4. Trade & Market Access
   • Domestic demand ensures a stable foundation for the industry.
   • Export opportunities help South Africa compete globally, boosting growth and visibility.
     
5. Value Chain Integration
   • Farmers, abattoirs, processors, retailers, and regulators form an interconnected network.
   • This collaboration ensures consistent supply, quality assurance, and competitiveness.

By driving both social and economic impact, the red meat industry extends its role far beyond primary production, positioning itself as a cornerstone of South Africa’s inclusive and resilient agricultural future.

Get the latest, most reliable slaughter statistics here

Current Challenges Facing the Industry

Despite its importance, the red meat industry in South Africa faces several challenges that affect growth, competitiveness, and sustainability. These include:

1. Animal Health Risks
   • Outbreaks of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and other livestock diseases disrupt supply chains.
   • Biosecurity concerns increase costs for farmers and restrict animal movement.
     
2. Market Barriers
   • Disease incidents often result in export bans, limiting global market access.
   • Compliance with international trade standards requires significant investment.
     
3. Infrastructure & Market Access Gaps
   • Small-scale and communal farmers often lack access to formal markets.
   • Premium consumers increasingly demand traceability, sustainability, and animal welfare assurances.

4. Sustainability & Environmental Pressures
   • Predation leads to livestock losses, affecting farmer income.
   • Climate change and land degradation place added strain on production systems.
     
5. Economic Volatility
   • Rising feed and input costs reduce profitability.
   • Fluctuating demand and price instability challenge long-term planning.

Addressing these obstacles is essential for the sector to remain competitive. By improving disease management, strengthening infrastructure, and promoting inclusive growth, the red meat industry can overcome barriers and position itself for sustainable success.

Take a look at this interactive map of reported Foot-and-Mouth Disease cases

Opportunities for Growth

While challenges exist, the red meat industry in South Africa also holds significant opportunities for expansion, innovation, and inclusivity. Some of the most promising growth areas include:

1. Expanding Market Access
   • Formalising supply chains for communal and small-scale farmers.
   • Increasing the number of weaners entering the formal market to meet rising demand.
     
2. Traceability & Biosecurity
   • Adoption of digital traceability platforms improves disease control and product transparency.
   • Enhanced biosecurity strengthens consumer and trade partner confidence.
     
3. Mobile Processing Units (MPUs)
   • Delivering mobile cattle handling facilities directly to rural communities to bridge critical infrastructure gaps.
   • By bringing the facilities to farmers, the need for animal movement is reduced.
   • This approach not only improves access to services but also helps limit the spread of animal diseases through reduced transport.
   • Enable smallholder farmers to access formal markets and fair pricing.
     
4. Export Growth
   • Opportunities to expand exports to new international markets.
   • Compliance with global standards can unlock premium prices and build brand reputation.
     
5. Innovation & Research
   • Investment in R&D through initiatives like Field to Future that focus on addressing the on-the-ground issues and gaps within the industry.
   • Adoption of modern farming techniques and sustainable practices to boost productivity.

By leveraging these opportunities, the red meat industry can drive inclusive growth, enhance competitiveness, and secure a resilient future for all stakeholders.

Use this interactive map to locate animal diseases

The Red Meat Industry Strategy 2030

To ensure long-term growth and resilience, the red meat industry has developed the Red Meat Industry Strategy 2030, a roadmap designed to address current challenges while unlocking future opportunities. The strategy is built on four key pillars:

Animal & Public Health

• Focus on controlling diseases such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD).
• Strengthening biosecurity and animal welfare standards across the value chain.

Market Access

• Expanding domestic and export opportunities by meeting international trade requirements.
• Building trust through transparent systems like traceability platforms.

Inclusive Growth

• Supporting small-scale and communal farmers to integrate into the formal economy.
• Providing access to training, mobile handling facilities, and sustainable market participation.

Competitiveness & Sustainability

• Encouraging innovation and research through initiatives like Field to Future.
• Promoting environmentally responsible and economically viable farming practices.

This strategy aligns industry stakeholders, government, and service providers to work collectively towards shared goals. By 2030, the aim is to build a red meat industry that is competitive, sustainable, inclusive, and trusted, ensuring benefits for farmers, consumers, and the broader South African economy.

Read the latest FMD update: Steps to apply for an animal movement permit within the DMA

Conclusion

The red meat industry remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s agricultural and economic landscape. By addressing challenges, embracing innovation, and driving inclusive growth, it can secure long-term sustainability. Guided by the Red Meat Industry Strategy 2030, the sector is positioned to strengthen food security, market access, and national resilience.

Partner with RMIS in shaping the future of South Africa’s red meat industry. Stay informed with our latest reports, training opportunities, and initiatives that drive growth and resilience. For more information or to connect with our team, feel free to contact us today.

Foot and Mouth Disease is a state-controlled disease and a serious animal health threat facing South Africa. This highly contagious viral illness affects cattle, sheep, and goats, disrupting farming and trade. Effective prevention and control are essential to protect livestock, safeguard farmers’ livelihoods, and strengthen the red meat industry.

What is Foot and Mouth Disease in Animals?

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral illness that affects cloven-hoofed animals. It remains one of the most serious threats to livestock health in South Africa and worldwide. Key details include:

Animals Affected

• Cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and some wild game species.
• Young animals (calves, lambs) are particularly vulnerable to high mortality.

Cause & Transmission

• Caused by an Aphthovirus that spreads quickly between herds.
• Transmission occurs through direct animal contact, contaminated feed, water, or farm equipment.

Symptoms

• Fever and reduced appetite.
• Painful blisters on the mouth, tongue, hooves, and teats.
• Lameness, weight loss, and a sharp decline in milk production.

Human Impact

• Foot and mouth disease does not infect humans, but it severely disrupts trade and farming operations.
• Outbreaks often lead to animal movement restrictions, trade bans, or culling.

By understanding these basics, farmers and stakeholders can prioritise early detection, vaccination, and strong biosecurity to protect animal health and safeguard livelihoods.

Stay updated with foot and mouth disease: Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) Updates

How Foot and Mouth Disease Affects Animals

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) has a direct and severe impact on livestock health, welfare, and productivity. Once animals are infected, the consequences can be long-lasting and economically damaging. Key effects include:

1. Reduced Productivity
   • Milk production drops sharply in dairy cows due to fever and mouth lesions.
   • Weight gain in beef cattle slows, reducing overall growth and market readiness.
     
2. Animal Welfare Issues
   • Painful blisters on the mouth, tongue, and hooves make eating and walking difficult.
   • Lameness often results, limiting mobility and increasing vulnerability to secondary infections.
   • Mastitis in dairy cows, which results in culling.
     
3. Impact on Young Animals
   • Calves, lambs, and piglets are especially at risk, with higher mortality rates.
   • Growth and development are stunted, reducing future productivity.
     
4. Long-Term Health Effects
   • Even after recovery, animals may suffer reduced fertility and ongoing weakness.
   • Herd performance declines, requiring additional resources for recovery.
     
5. Indirect Consequences
   • Farmers may be forced to cull infected animals to stop further spread.
   • Loss of valuable breeding stock disrupts herd development for years.

Overall, foot and mouth disease undermines both the health of animals and the economic security of farmers, making prevention and early control measures absolutely vital.

Read the latest foot and mouth disease update: Steps to apply for an animal movement permit within the DMA

Economic and Industry Implications

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) does not only harm animal health; it also places enormous strain on the broader livestock industry and national economy. The main implications include:

Farmer Losses

• Reduced milk yields, lower weight gain, and animal deaths cut into profits.
• Culling of infected herds leads to immediate financial setbacks and loss of valuable breeding stock.

Trade Restrictions

• Outbreaks often trigger export bans on red meat and live animals.
• Loss of international market access undermines competitiveness and revenue.

Market Instability

• Domestic prices fluctuate as supply is disrupted.
• Consumers may shift buying behaviour due to safety concerns.

Value Chain Disruptions

• Abattoirs, feedlots, and transporters experience delays and reduced throughput.
• Rural communities relying on livestock income face economic hardship.

National Economic Impact

• Agriculture’s contribution to GDP weakens during prolonged outbreaks.
• Emergency disease control measures increase government and industry costs.

Ultimately, foot and mouth disease threatens both livelihoods and food security, highlighting why strict control and rapid response are essential for protecting the red meat industry.

Take a look at this interactive map of reported Foot-and-Mouth Disease cases

How Foot and Mouth Disease Spreads Among Animals

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is highly contagious, and its rapid spread makes it one of the most difficult livestock diseases to control. Transmission occurs through several pathways:

1. Direct Animal Contact
   • Sick animals spread the virus through saliva, milk, breath, and secretions.
   • Herds grazing or drinking water together are at high risk.
     
2. Contaminated Surfaces
   • Farm equipment, feeding troughs, and water sources can carry the virus.
   • Transport Vehicles and tools that move between farms often act as carriers.
     
3. Human Movement
   • Clothing, shoes, and hands of farmworkers or visitors can transport the virus unknowingly.
   • Lack of biosecurity measures increases the risk of accidental spread.
     
4. Animal Movement & Trade
   • Moving infected animals across regions or borders rapidly spreads the disease.
   • Informal or uncontrolled markets increase exposure.
     
5. Environmental Persistence
   • The virus can survive for weeks in soil, hay, and manure under cool conditions.

Because foot and mouth disease spreads so easily, strict quarantine, movement control, and hygiene practices are essential to stop outbreaks from escalating.

Stay updated with the latest animal disease reports and insights here.

Prevention and Control Measures

Controlling Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) requires a combination of strong biosecurity, rapid response, and long-term prevention strategies. Key measures include:

Quarantine & Movement Control

• Infected farms are isolated to stop further spread.
• Animal movement is restricted within Disease Management Areas.

Vaccination

• Strategic vaccination campaigns in high-risk zones reduce outbreaks.
• Regular booster doses help maintain herd immunity.

On-Farm Biosecurity

• Farmers must disinfect equipment, vehicles, and footwear.
• Limiting visitors and controlling herd contact reduces exposure.

Traceability Systems

• Digital platforms track animal movements and incidents in real time.
• Quick reporting ensures faster containment during outbreaks.

Government & Industry Collaboration

• Joint efforts provide resources for surveillance, testing, and farmer support.
• Coordinated communication ensures stakeholders act swiftly and consistently.

Through consistent application of these measures, the livestock sector can significantly reduce the risk of foot and mouth disease outbreaks and protect both animal health and farmer livelihoods.

Register your production unit now: RMIS Traceability Platform

Conclusion

Foot and Mouth Disease remains one of the greatest threats to livestock health and farming in South Africa. By strengthening prevention, investing in biosecurity, and supporting coordinated responses, the industry can reduce outbreaks. Protecting animals against foot and mouth disease is essential for safeguarding farmers, trade, and national food security.

Join RMIS in the fight against Foot and Mouth Disease by staying informed, implementing strong prevention measures, and supporting industry-wide initiatives. Together, we can protect livestock and strengthen South Africa’s red meat sector. For more details or support, feel free to contact us today.