An import certification dispute between South Africa and Argentina could tighten winter oxtail supplies, pushing up prices for consumers and placing pressure on retailers.
South Africans could soon be paying substantially more for one of the country's favourite winter comfort foods as an administrative dispute threatens imports of Argentine oxtail, which accounts for the majority of local supply.
The Association of Meat Importers and Exporters South Africa (AMIE) has urged the Department of Agriculture to urgently resolve what it described as a preventable certification issue before shortages begin affecting retailers and consumers.
South Africa imports about 70% of its oxtail from Argentina because local producers cannot meet domestic demand, particularly during winter when oxtail stew and potjie become household staples.
According to AMIE, importers are already carefully managing available stock and consumers could soon face higher prices if the impasse continues.
