The Western Cape’s growing equine export industry is creating jobs and strengthening South Africa’s agricultural economy, with 31 horses recently exported to France through Cape Town International Airport.
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Ivan Meyer, has welcomed the continued growth of horse exports, describing it as a sign of the province’s strong animal health systems and global competitiveness.
The latest consignment departed on June 30 after completing the mandatory pre-export quarantine period at the Kenilworth Quarantine Station, a key facility that enables South African horses to access international markets.
According to Meyer, the successful export highlights the province’s ability to meet strict international biosecurity requirements.
“The successful export of these horses demonstrates the Western Cape’s ability to meet the stringent animal health and biosecurity standards required by international markets. It also reinforces our province’s reputation as a trusted global supplier of high-quality horses,” he said.
The equine industry remains a major economic contributor, supporting approximately 177,000 jobs nationally and adding more than R7 billion to South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP). The Western Cape serves as the country’s leading hub for thoroughbred breeding and is the gateway for all equine exports.
The province’s strategic importance stems from Cape Town’s internationally recognised African Horse Sickness Free Zone status, a requirement that allows local breeders and exporters to access lucrative overseas markets.
Meyer said the industry’s growth extends beyond exports, providing employment opportunities across multiple sectors, including breeding, training, veterinary services and logistics.
“The continued expansion of equine exports not only strengthens our agricultural economy but also supports livelihoods across the value chain—from breeders and trainers to logistics and veterinary services,” he said.
The Western Cape Government said it remains committed to maintaining world-class biosecurity standards and expanding market access to ensure the long-term sustainability of the equine sector.
With additional horse consignments expected to be exported in the coming months, the industry is poised to further support job creation, rural development and export-led economic growth in the province.
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za