THE local distributor of cattle ear tags, Veterinary Supplies (Swavet) has announced that the price of cattle ear tags will increase this week.
The Agriculture Union of Namibia (NAU) says in its latest newsletter that a standard tag will cost N$7,20 while a maxi tag will cost N$8,70.
Currently, a standard tag costs N$6,20 and a maxi tag N$7,20.
‘Despite inflation and the exchange rate the price of the current FANMeat ear tags has remained unchanged for the past years. Currently, though, the importer is busy selling the ear tags at a loss. The Farm Assured Namibian Meat (FANMeat) Committee thus decided to adapt the price of the ear tags,’ the newsletter stated.
The ear tag system offers traceability of individual animals, and ensures quality standards and procedures on farms as well.
According to NAU, after many inquiries on how to make effective and cheap electronic ear tags available to producers, it was decided to make a recommendation to the Minister of Agriculture, John Mutorwa, to approve the electronic ear tags.
Even though the electronic ear tags are approximately N$5 more expensive than the ordinary tags, the committee decided to recommend it because it improves the traceability system.
Export requirements with regard to traceability, even for weaners to South Africa, will become stricter and producers will have to comply with such requirements. – Nampa
