New livestock movement rules: What every farmer needs to know

By Maile Matsimela

South African livestock farmers are facing significant changes in how they manage animal movements following the publication of new control measures by the Minister of Agriculture. Published in Government Gazette No. 52868 on 13 June 2025, these regulations aim to prevent and manage the spread of controlled diseases in cloven-hoofed animals.

The new regulations, issued under the Animal Diseases Act (ADA), establish clear protocols that all livestock owners, land managers and veterinarians must follow. These measures represent a comprehensive approach to biosecurity that will affect day-to-day operations on farms across the country.

Understanding your responsibilities

Under the new regulations, the “responsible person” – which includes landowners or animal owners – must implement biosecurity measures and maintain proper documentation. This responsibility extends to all aspects of livestock management, particularly when animals are moved between locations.

When moving animals, farmers must complete an Animal Health Declaration. For animals destined for slaughter, a specialised “Declaration of Health for Slaughter” is required instead.

Upon receiving animals, farmers must complete a Destination Declaration confirming that the newly arrived animals will undergo a 28-day isolation period before being integrated with existing herds. During this isolation period, regular inspections must be conducted to monitor the animals’ health status.

Livestock gatherings: Special considerations

The regulations define gatherings as events where animals from different sources come together, including auctions and livestock shows. While animals moved to gatherings are exempt from the standard 28-day isolation requirement, strict biosecurity and record-keeping protocols still apply.

A key requirement for these gatherings is the appointment of a Biosecurity Officer who must be registered with the South African Veterinary Council. This officer’s responsibilities include overseeing compliance with regulations, inspecting animals, and issuing movement declarations for animals leaving the gathering.

Gathering facilities themselves must maintain separation between arrival zones and biosecure zones to prevent cross-contamination. All health declarations for animals leaving gatherings must be prepared by the biosecurity officer and kept for at least five years.

Identification and transport requirements

The new measures emphasise proper animal identification and traceability. All animals must be marked with a registered brand or tattoo in compliance with the Animal Identification Act (AIDA) and must have an individual ear tag with a unique serial number.

Livestock transport vehicles fall under strict regulations as well. They must be cleaned and disinfected after each trip, and those regularly transporting animals must be registered. An important consideration is that animals from mixed-origin loads will assume the same health status and corresponding movement risks.

Complete traceability records must be maintained by responsible persons for a minimum of five years. These records must include details about the origin, destination, health declarations, and conveyance information for all animal movements.

Consequences of no-compliance

The regulations come with serious consequences for non-compliance. Violations of the ADA, livestock movement protocols, or the Stock Theft Act can result in criminal penalties, including fines up to R8 000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both. Repeat violations may lead to even harsher penalties.

Adapting to the new reality

These comprehensive measures require livestock owners across South Africa to integrate movement and biosecurity protocols into their daily operations. While adaptation may present challenges initially, these measures aim to protect the national herd from disease outbreaks that could devastate the industry.

For farmers with questions about implementation, local state veterinarians can provide clarification on specific requirements. The Red Meat Producers Organisation (RPO) also remains available to assist farmers in navigating these important regulatory changes.

By understanding and implementing these new measures, South Africa’s livestock industry can build resilience against disease threats while maintaining its vital role in the country’s agricultural economy.