Hartlief Group is targeting to export its first shipment of lamb to Norway next month from its recently taken over Mariental Abattoir (formerly known as Farmers Meat Market) which had shut down operations in August 2020 due to the low availability of sheep.
The plans by the Ohlthaver and List (O&L) Group subsidiary comes as the meat processor is currently awaiting certification for the plant to be allowed to export internationally, starting with exporting with local and regional supply and its first shipment to Norway in November 2022.
The development is aimed at “capitalising on the lucrative, unexplored international market as well as SADC and potentially the bigger African market, which provides great potential and growth opportunity for business and Namibia as a whole.”
This follows the takeover of the plant by Hartlief, with commercial operations expected to resume this month, amid an increased demand for Namibian meat combined with an increased number of animals available in the local market after two consecutive improved rain seasons.
The resumption of the abattoir is not only expected to ensure a market for small stock producers with improved price points, but will also create employment opportunities in the Hardap Region.
“The reopening and the regional and international certification of the abattoir is a significant achievement, not only for Hartlief and the O&L Group, but for Namibian small stock farmers and the country at large. This route to market for Namibian producers allows us to become an international player and export our quality Namibian lamb with pride. This new business will also enable us to better meet the need to become food secure,” Hartlief Group Managing Director Gunther Ling said.
Hartlief is currently on the hunt for new market opportunities after it started exports to Botswana, with Angola exports at an advanced stage.
Hartlief, which is 60%-owned by Ohlthaver and List Group, has operations in South Africa through the distribution and wholesaling of its products. The company also branched out to offer a deli experience in Cape Town.
