Sheep sector expands by 36.7%

The sheep sector recorded an expansion in activity of 36.7%, led by live exports and slaughtering at A-class abattoirs. This is according to latest statistics by the Livestock and Livestock Products Board (LLPB), formerly known as the Meat Board. Exports expanded by 41.3%, growing from 581 873 heads of sheep in 2022 to 795 145 in 2023. South Africa remained the main buyer of sheep with 99.7% of the live export market share, while exports to other countries remained relatively insignificant at 0.28%.

The increase in sheep marketing during 2023 was driven by an increase in demand from South Africa coupled with increased slaughter activities at export-approved abattoirs that serviced both domestic and international markets, the LLPB said.

- Ellanie Smit