Lesotho has partially lifted a ban on imports of livestock and livestock products from neighbouring South Africa, announcing on Wednesday that only products from approved abattoirs will be allowed entry into the country.
In circular number 5 of 2026, Lesotho’s Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition Minister Selibe Mochoboroane said imports of livestock and livestock products from South Africa was resuming with immediate effect.
According to the circular, the lifting of the import ban only applies to red meat and pork products originating from abattoirs approved by the South African Component Veterinary Authority for export and specifically approved or recognised by the Lesotho Veterinary Authority.
It said the import of live cloven-hoofed animals also applies to situations where the animals originate from areas in South Africa which have been declared free from foot and mouth disease (FMD).
Imports of commodities such as feet, heads and viscera, including offals would remain prohibited until further notice.
Lesotho slapped a ban on imports of cloven-hoofed livestock and their derivatives from South Africa last year after the neighbouring country declared an outbreak of FMD in several parts of the country.
JN/APA