Zambia has imposed an immediate ban on the import of all livestock and related products from South Africa, in a sweeping biosecurity move aimed at shielding its herds from a fast-spreading foot-and-mouth disease outbreak south of the border.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock in Lusaka confirmed that all existing import permits for South African livestock have been revoked. Ministry spokesperson Benny Munyama said the suspension covers both commercial and small-scale imports, stressing that the decision was taken to protect Zambia’s national herd and safeguard the livestock-based economy.

The restrictions go far beyond live animals. Imports of livestock feed, trophies, skins, hides and a wide range of cloven-hoofed animal products, including dairy, have been halted unless importers can meet stringent risk-mitigation and certification requirements. Transit of live animals from South Africa through Zambian territory has also been stopped, closing a key regional corridor for animal movements.

The move follows South Africa’s declaration of the FMD outbreak as a national disaster, after the virus was confirmed in all nine provinces. Authorities there have imposed quarantines on affected farms, particularly in the Western and Northern Cape, and tightened movement controls on cattle and other susceptible species.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the situation as among the worst FMD outbreaks the country has faced. His government has set up a task team of veterinarians, industry leaders and farmers to coordinate the response and provide regular progress reports to the presidency.

Central to South Africa’s containment strategy is an ambitious vaccination campaign targeting 14 million cattle over a 12-month period, requiring an estimated 28 million doses. To meet demand, Pretoria is sourcing vaccines from Botswana, Türkiye and Argentina, while state-linked manufacturer Onderstepoort Biological Products works to increase local production.

The outbreak has already dealt a heavy blow to South Africa’s beef sector. Export data from industry and trade sources show shipments to China, one of its most lucrative markets, plunged after Beijing imposed its own import restrictions in response to FMD detections.

Zambian officials say the border closure is a precautionary, time-bound measure that will be reviewed as the situation in South Africa evolves. Veterinary services in Zambia have been placed on heightened alert, with surveillance stepped up in border districts and at major transport routes to prevent any illegal movement of animals or animal products.