Meatco's first consignment off to Hong Kong

Meatco shipped the first consignment of Namibian beef destined for Hong Kong last week Thursday after receiving approval to start beef exports to Asian markets in May.
Namibia is the first country in Africa to export beef to Hong Kong.
Hong Kong is an alternate market for Namibian beef. Namibia produces about 60 000 metric tons of beef per year. Roughly 20 000 metric tons are exported to South Africa and the European Union (EU).
After receiving approval without any product restrictions for Hong Kong, Meatco can now export large volumes to the Asian market.
According to Meatco the first consignment consists of various cuts, weighing 23 719 kg.
“The new markets that Meatco is exploring around the world allow us to promote products in different places and to balance the product mix,” the company said in a statement.
Under the health requirements for exports to Hong Kong, all cattle eligible for export must be born and raised in areas free of foot-and-mouth-disease where no vaccinations are done. These animals must also bear a unique identification mark to trace the animal back to the farm of origin.
The agreement includes exports of offal, sealed or frozen beef products and bone-in products.
Namibian beef is already on shelves throughout Europe and Norway, but there is a strong need to explore new markets to increase Meatco’s revenue during different times of the year.
According to Meatco these other markets foster confidence in Namibia’s animal health status and farmers are assured of secure markets for their cattle.
STAFF REPORTER