Botswana increases live cattle export levy by 900%

The Botswana government has implemented a tenfold increase in the live cattle export levy, raising the cost from P30 to P300 per head. This 900 percent increase comes as the government reopens live cattle exports under a six-month dispensation to assist farmers facing economic difficulties due to Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Minister of Lands and Agriculture Dr. Edwin Dikoloti announced that the six-month arrangement is limited to slaughter-ready steers, while meat and meat products remain eligible for export for 12 months. The minister stated the development provides opportunities for businesses to recover income while supporting livestock management, though he did not specify the rationale for the levy hike.

The Botswana National Beef Producers Union (BNBPU) expressed concern over the sudden cost increase. Spokesperson Alfred Pilane noted that while the union sought the export dispensation to provide relief, the high levy may negatively impact farmers who are still struggling to normalize operations following the FMD outbreak.