Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, has welcomed the continued growth of the province’s equine export industry, with further consignments of horses destined for international markets in the coming months.
A total of 31 horses were exported to France on 30 June 2026, departing from Cape Town International Airport after successfully completing the mandatory pre-export quarantine period at the Kenilworth Quarantine Station (KQS).
Minister Meyer said this milestone underscores the strength, reliability, and global competitiveness of the Western Cape’s animal health systems, quarantine management processes, and export capabilities.
“The successful export of these horses demonstrates the Western Cape’s ability to meet the stringent animal health and biosecurity standards required by international markets. It also reinforces our province’s reputation as a trusted global supplier of high-quality horses,” said Minister Meyer.
The equine industry remains a significant contributor to South Africa’s economy. Nationally, the racing industry supports approximately 177,000 jobs and contributes more than R7 billion to GDP. The Western Cape is at the heart of this sector, serving as the country’s primary hub for thoroughbred breeding, with a wide range of other equine breeds also represented.
All equine exports are facilitated through the Western Cape, as the City of Cape Town is internationally recognised as an African Horse Sickness Free Zone—a critical requirement for access to global markets.
Minister Meyer highlighted the broader economic importance of the sector, noting its role in job creation, rural development, and export-led growth.
“The continued expansion of equine exports not only strengthens our agricultural economy but also supports livelihoods across the value chain—from breeders and trainers to logistics and veterinary services,” he added.
The Western Cape Government remains committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of the equine industry by maintaining world-class biosecurity standards and enabling market access for exporters.
Media enquiries:
Daniel Johnson
Media Liaison Officer to Provincial Minister Ivan Meyer
