The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) has raised alarm over irregularities in chicken import pricing, urging the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to launch an investigation.
The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) has raised concerns over suspicious pricing patterns in chicken imports, urging the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to investigate. These anomalies could be costing South Africa significant customs revenue while creating unfair competition for local poultry producers.
SAPA has identified two key issues: under-declaration of dutiable products such as leg quarters, drumsticks, and bone-in portions, and over-declaration of duty-free mechanically deboned meat (MDM). Both practices distort the market and harm the local poultry industry.
Under-declaration of dutiable poultry imports
SAPA’s analysis of SARS import data for the first half of 2026 reveals that up to 50% of poultry imports may have been under-declared. This practice is particularly evident in imports from Brazil and Argentina, which account for over 90% of South Africa’s poultry imports. Some irregular consignments have also been flagged from the Netherlands, Ireland, and Spain.
For example:
- Brazilian leg quarters were declared at R2.07/kg, far below the reference production price of R25.43/kg.
- Netherlands leg quarters were declared at R102.67/kg, significantly above the reference price of R34.47/kg.
Over-declaration of duty-free MDM
Mechanically deboned meat (MDM), which is duty-free, has also shown inflated pricing. Consignments have been declared at R15–R21/kg, compared to the usual range of R8–R12/kg. This over-declaration could be a tactic to offset losses from under-declared dutiable products.
SAPA’s call to action
SAPA has formally requested SARS to investigate these pricing anomalies. The association plans to escalate the matter to the Ministers of Agriculture and Finance if necessary. The primary concerns are the loss of customs revenue and the unfair competition faced by South African poultry producers.
The investigation into chicken import pricing is crucial for protecting South Africa’s poultry industry and ensuring fair trade practices. SAPA’s proactive stance highlights the need for transparency and accountability in import pricing.
