South Africa extends UAE red meat export registration deadline

South African Agriculture Minister Willie Aucamp has announced an extension for the registration deadline of farms and feedlots supplying livestock for red meat exports to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The new deadline is set for 31 December 2026, allowing producers more time to comply with Veterinary Procedural Notice 59 (VPN-59).

The extension aims to prevent trade disruptions and protect livelihoods within the livestock sector while state veterinarians and farmers finalize the necessary compliance processes. Minister Aucamp stated that the move is critical for maintaining agricultural trade relations with the UAE and ensuring the industry meets international standards without unnecessary interruptions to the supply chain.

During this extended period, exports are not automatically permitted. Facilities must have been inspected by a provincial state veterinarian, have verified compliance, and have submitted a compliant registration application to the Directorate: Animal Health. After the December 2026 deadline, only registered facilities will be eligible to supply livestock for red meat exports to the UAE.