New FMD control measures to offer relief for South African farmers
A key feature of the new framework is the introduction of risk-based pathways that allow some trade activities to resume during quarantine.
South Africa is set to introduce a new set of national foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) control measures designed to give livestock farmers a clearer path to recovery during outbreaks while protecting agricultural trade and strengthening biosecurity.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen announced the measures on Thursday, saying the livestock industry needed certainty and practical solutions to manage disease outbreaks without unnecessarily threatening farmers’ livelihoods.
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“South Africa’s livestock producers need clear rules, sound science and practical pathways that allow them to manage outbreaks without unnecessarily jeopardising their livelihoods,” said Steenhuisen.
The measures, which will take effect once published in the Government Gazette, replace a range of previous directives, including the 2019 FMD Contingency Plan and later amendments.
They establish a single national framework for managing outbreaks from detection through to recovery.
FMD remains one of the most economically damaging animal diseases affecting the livestock sector, with outbreaks disrupting production, limiting market access and placing financial strain on farmers and rural communities.
A key feature of the new framework is the introduction of risk-based pathways that allow some trade activities to resume during quarantine periods.
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Under the new measures, animals may be sent to designated FMD abattoirs from 16 days after a property has been declared clinically clear, while wider slaughter options, including export-approved facilities, become available after 42 days.
The framework also confirms that vaccinated animals which have never been infected and are not under quarantine remain healthy and can continue to be traded and moved under normal regulations.
“The objective is simple: protect animal health and stop the disease spreading, while ensuring that farmers can continue operating safely wherever possible,” said Steenhuisen.
The measures further reduce unnecessary destruction of agricultural products by managing items such as feed, fodder and manure according to scientifically established risk periods rather than blanket disposal requirements.
Affected farmers will also have more options for recovery. Instead of automatically removing entire herds before quarantine restrictions can be lifted, producers will be able to choose alternatives such as restocking with vaccinated animals or sourcing livestock from FMD-free areas.
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“For many farmers, particularly those operating under difficult financial conditions, the prospect of losing an entire herd can be devastating,” said Steenhuisen.
These measures introduce practical alternatives that are scientifically sound and economically realistic.
The new framework also includes dedicated provisions for communal and peri-urban livestock systems and introduces streamlined veterinary procedures and clearer timelines for product movement approvals.
“These measures reflect the latest scientific evidence, recognise the realities facing farmers on the ground and provide a balanced framework that protects animal health while limiting economic disruption,” Steenhuisen said.
The Department of Agriculture said the effectiveness of the measures would be monitored and formally reviewed within 12 months of implementation.
