South Africans have until midnight tonight to submit public comment on draft regulations that animal welfare groups and veterinarians say will entrench “barbaric treatment and intense suffering” of animals exported live by sea for slaughter.
The Department of Agriculture’s proposed law, released on 11 July, sets out conditions for live animal exports — a practice condemned by experts both locally and internationally. Critics warn the regulations are a “bureaucratic façade” that cannot prevent cruelty once ships leave South African waters, where national law no longer applies.
Veterinary voices speak out
Dr Angelique Smit, a South African veterinarian, stated: “It is not possible to ensure animal welfare when live animals are transported or exported by sea. Stocking densities required to make the practice economically viable compromise true animal welfare.”
Australian group Vets Against Live Export (VALE), with over 200 members, has opposed the draft, citing a 40-year track record of poor welfare in the industry.
Global trend: bans in motion
- New Zealand banned live exports in 2023
- The UK legislated a ban in 2024
- Luxembourg and Germany have prohibited the practice
- Australia passed a law to phase out live sheep exports by 2028
Evidence of suffering
In 2024, the ship Al Kuwait docked in Cape Town with 19,000 cattle bound for Iraq. NSPCA inspectors found animals confined in cramped, unsanitary conditions. Humane World for Animals SA and partners report that animals endure heat stress, ammonia buildup, noise, and inadequate care — with deaths common.
False promises to farmers
Despite claims that live export benefits emerging farmers, NSPCA analysis shows 85% of exported livestock come from large commercial farms. Chilled meat exports are far more valuable — in Australia, 58 times more than live exports.
Veterinary ethics undermined
The regulations rely on veterinary oversight to lend legitimacy, but critics say this risks betraying the profession’s duty of care. “Even comprehensive and well-enforced regulations cannot address the inherent cruelty of live export,” said Tony Gerrans, Executive Director of Humane World for Animals SA.
Commenting is quick and easy — and it matters
You don’t need to be an expert. A simple objection helps. Submit your comment via:
- Email: VPH@Dalrrd.gov.za
CC: RegulationsComments@stopliveexport.co.za - Online: Dear South Africa portal
This is your last chance to speak out. Every voice counts.
Inky Dresner
Soapbox Communications
Cell: (083) 297 7981
Email: inky@soapbox.co.za