The provincial government has welcomed the resumption of the exporting of thoroughbred horses from South Africa to the EU after a 14-year absence as a development which will significantly boost the local economy and create jobs locally and in other provinces.
A consignment of 32 horses departed to the EU on Saturday.
Agriculture MEC Ivan Meyer said: “This was the first direct export of horses to the EU since December 2010.
“It was the result of many years of hard work through a public-private partnership between the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, Veterinary Services, the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, SA Equine Health and Protocols (SAEHP), and sectors of the equine industry.
“I am also excited that further exports are planned for as early as mid-September, which signals a resounding vote of confidence in the work being done by the public-private partnership,” Meyer said.
“An estimated 177 000 people are supported by employment in the thoroughbred horse racing and breeding industry alone, with many more jobs in the rural areas provided by other sectors of the equine industry. The ability to export horses to the EU will protect these jobs.”
The SAEHP highlighted that since December 2010, when the EU no longer allowed the direct export of horses, horses destined for the EU have had to be exported via Mauritius.
South Africa’s internationally acclaimed racehorse trainer, Mike de Kock, said: “Having competed with South African runners in countries around the world, including the US, the UK, Dubai and Hong Kong, I can tell you our global participation in racing has a significant impact on our local industry and its thousands of employees. The first direct shipment to the EU in 14 years has been completed, a pertinent and potentially beneficial turning point for horse racing and breeding in our country. It’s a game changer.”
Leading bloodstock consultant Jehan Malherbe of Form Bloodstock said South Africa being able to export again was a welcome development and hoped it would open doors globally.
“The price in South Africa is right, and the costs are relatively low. You can buy yearlings here and start them here, then they can be shipped out.”
Cape Times