daniel chigunwe
Business Writer
Despite the Government’s recent decision to scrap Value Added Tax (VAT) on chicken meat, kapenta and live animals, the prices of beef and pork remain exorbitantly high, placing them out of reach for many consumers.
Industry players have expressed concern that the elevated prices have led to a significant decline in demand, resulting in substantial stockpiles of beef and pork held by abattoirs.
The low demand for beef and pork has, in turn, created a dilemma for livestock producers who are struggling to find buyers for their animals.
The situation has also contributed to an increase in cattle rustling, forcing desperate farmers to dispose of their livestock at any cost.
The meant industry has been urged to reconsider its VAT policy for beef and pork to alleviate the financial burden on consumers and support the livestock industry.
“The high prices of beef and pork are simply unsustainable,” said one industry player who controls a significant market share of the industry.
“Consumers cannot afford it. It is a lose-lose situation for everyone involved.”
A Chivhu livestock producer said he had never experienced such a difficult time.
“My animals are unsold, and I cannot find anyone willing to pay a reasonable price. It is extremely stressful,” he said.
Despite the Government’s earlier promise to remove VAT on meat products, the promised Statutory Instrument has yet to be implemented.
This delay has created a significant dilemma for the meat industry.
The lack of a clear VAT policy has created opportunities for a thriving informal meat dealers who are bypassing formal abattoirs and selling directly to retailers in the informal sector.
Calls seeking comment from Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion permanent secretary George Guvamatanga, were nor answered.
Consumers interviewed by this publication reported that chicken is currently more affordable than beef and pork, leading many to opt for the former as their preferred meat choice.
Bongani Ndlovu