South African poultry industry raises concerns over U.S. import deal

SOUTH AFRICA – The South African poultry sector is pushing back against recent developments involving a trade agreement that expands duty-free poultry imports from the United States.

Industry representatives have accused the government of excluding them from consultations on a deal they believe threatens local production and undermines job security.

The concerns follow a statement made by Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau, who said the agreement would simplify the importation process for U.S. poultry and could unlock trade worth over US$89 million (1.6 billion rand).

However, industry players argue that no communication or engagement preceded the announcement, leaving them uncertain about the deal’s scope and implications.

Particular worry has been raised over the tariff-rate quota initially introduced in 2016, which allowed 65,000 tonnes of U.S. poultry into the country without duties despite ongoing anti-dumping measures.

That figure has reportedly grown to 72,000 tonnes, an increase local producers say makes it harder for them to compete in an already difficult market.

In May, the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) met with Minister Tau to request the government’s commitment to two specific actions.

First, SAPA asked for formal consultation with the poultry sector before the conclusion of any trade agreements that could affect domestic production.

Second, the association urged the government to revoke the tariff-free quota granted to U.S. poultry imports with immediate effect.

Since the meeting, SAPA says it has not received any response from the minister’s office, nor has any further engagement taken place.

The association argues that the current arrangement gives the U.S. a trade advantage, as South African poultry exporters continue to face restricted access to the American market.

Producers say the one-way nature of the agreement leaves them vulnerable, especially at a time when feed costs and other inputs remain high and economic pressures continue to mount.

As a result, SAPA is now calling on the government to explain the deal announced on July 29 and to scrap the import quota as soon as possible.

They warn that without these changes, the local poultry sector could suffer significant damage including farm shutdowns, job losses and reduced food availability.

While the association remains open to future discussions, it insists that any new trade arrangements must be transparent, inclusive and balanced in order to safeguard South African livelihoods.

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