Abattoir Registration In South Africa

What is an Abattoir?

The abattoir is a key transformation area in the South African meat supply chain. The abattoir industry is responsible for the conversion of livestock to meat or carcasses.

Abattoir Registration In South Africa

Apply In-Person:

  1. To Apply for an Abattoir Permit or License in South Africa, the applicant has to approach the Department of Agriculture, Forestry, And Fisheries link
  2. An application form will be provided to the applicant by the concerned officer.
  3. The applicant has to fill in all the necessary details in the application form. (Incomplete applications are not accepted)
  4. Make sure that the applicant has attached all the necessary documents that are mentioned in the “Required Documents” section of this page.
  5. The applicant has to attach the photocopies of the required documents along with the application form while submitting.
  6. Submit all the documents with the completed form to the concerned officer.
  7. The applicant has to pay the prescribed fee as requested by the authority.
  8. After receiving the application, the concerned authority will check the submitted application and document set. If all are in place, the application will be accepted.
  9. An acknowledgment receipt will be provided. Please save it for future reference.
  10. The concerned officer will conduct an onsite inspection and audit procedures regarding discussing water and disposal of carcasses.
  11. Once all the safety checks are approved, then the application will be processed further.
  12. All the updates on the application status will be sent via SMS to the applicant’s mobile number.
  13. Once the process is completed, the applicant gets a call from the office regarding the license.
  14. This entire process can be completed within 30 days or as per the timeline advised by the respective department authority.

Required Documents

  • Completed application form
  • Certified South African Identity copy
  • Two copies of a complete set of drawings (plans) for an assessment by Veterinary Public Health from a hygiene point of view.
  • The pro-forma information inquiry “Building an Abattoir” duly completed
  • Written approval of the Local Authority that the abattoir may be built at the premises.
  • A letter of no objection from the Department of Water Affairs wherein the method of disposal of abattoir effluent is addressed.

How much does it cost to start an abattoir in South Africa?

The capital requirement for an abattoir with the capacity to slaughter 10 units is estimated at R4 743 000 excluding VAT.

Adding a poultry slaughtering facility at the same premises, but not in the same building, will increase the capital cost to R5 793 600.00.

How many abattoirs are in South Africa?

South Africa has approximately 431 abattoirs slaughtering cattle, pigs, and sheep on an annual basis [Find the DALRRD list of abattoirs (2021, November) on its website, www.dalrrd.gov.za].