Namibia’s livestock exports face disruption as veterinary certification inspections halt
Namibia’s livestock exporters temporarily sideline EU-approved inspections after veterinary funding shortfalls threaten access to premium markets, prompting urgent negotiations for a sustainable solution.
Namibia’s livestock exporters to the European Union have won a temporary reprieve after annual certification inspections were halted when the Directorate of Veterinary Services ran out of operational funds for the 2026/27 year, according to organised agriculture.
EU-approved farms must be inspected each year by state veterinarians to keep their certification, a requirement that underpins access to premium export markets. The pause had raised concern that certificates could lapse, leaving producers unable to send animals to export-approved abattoirs.
The Livestock Producers Organisation took the matter to stakeholders, prompting talks with the Directorate of Veterinary Services and the Livestock and Livestock Products Board of Namibia. Under the interim arrangement, producers needing EU certification will, for a limited period, pay the travel and related costs of the veterinarians, with payments handled through the board.
The board is preparing a formal proposal for government, while Treasury advice is being sought on the structure. Longer-term options under discussion include a ring-fenced Treasury account for essential veterinary work and a broader animal health levy.
The dispute has exposed wider pressure on Namibia’s veterinary system at a time when the livestock sector is already under strain. Meatco recently reported a sharp fall in revenue after cattle deliveries dropped, underlining how fragile supply chains remain.
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