The Association of Meat Importers and Exporters (AMIE) in South Africa had a momentous occasion in June 2023 as they celebrated the launch of the AMIE Academy. This significant achievement became possible after the South African Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD) and the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) passed the statutory levy for Beef, Pork, Lamb, and Poultry, including Mechanically Deboned Meat (MDM), imported into South Africa earlier in February 2023.
This newly implemented statutory levy marks a transformative phase for the industry, as it provides AMIE with the necessary resources to pursue its vision of exceeding its members’ expectations through strategic solutions and innovative thinking. With this funding, the association aims to empower the meat and poultry import and export sector, ensuring its long-term viability and competitiveness in the global market.
The primary initiative driven by AMIE, with the support of the levy, is the establishment of the AMIE Academy. While training and development were not the primary focus of AMIE before, the association recognized the significance of nurturing a representative industry and fostering new talent. As a result, it collaborated with partners in the training and development sector to create an annual development program and facilitate other opportunities that would support and empower newcomers entering the industry.
The launch of the AMIE Academy marks a turning point for South Africa’s meat and poultry import and export sector. With the support of the statutory levy, AMIE is well-positioned to realize its vision of fostering sustainable growth and surpassing its members’ expectations. Through comprehensive educational programs and practical experiences, the AMIE Academy is set to empower and equip emerging entrepreneurs, ensuring a robust and prosperous future for the industry. As the academy’s initiatives take root, the meat and poultry sector in South Africa is sure to witness positive transformations that will extend beyond borders and impact markets globally.
