New trade agreement with China sparks optimism in Botswana beef industry

Beef exporters in Botswana have warmly welcomed a new trade agreement granting access for the country's premium beef to the Chinese market — seen as a major boost to one of Botswana's pillar industries.

Boniface Monnawapula, a board member of the Botswana Farmers Association, expressed optimism about the deal, which was signed last month during a meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Changsha, Central China's Hunan province.

"China is a big economy and trading market," he said, adding his association is eager to explore partnerships with Chinese farmers in climate-smart agriculture, climate change adaptation and skills transfer.

Andrew Seeletso of the Botswana National Beef Producers Union also welcomed the agreement, describing it as a step in the right direction, but called for more engagement with the government to accelerate its implementation.

"It's a welcome development. However, we are waiting for the authority to fully brief us on the contents of the agreement," he said, adding that a meeting with government authorities is scheduled in the coming days.

Addressing concerns about Botswana's capacity to meet demands from the vast Chinese market, Seeletso emphasized the country's strategic focus on high-quality exports.

"As Botswana, we go for niche markets because we compete on quality, not quantity," he said. While Botswana is unlikely to pursue mass production, producers could scale up if demand and pricing are favorable — without compromising their commitment to supplying organic, quality beef, he said.

Chinese Ambassador to Botswana Fan Yong highlighted the importance of the agreement and commended the productive discussions between the two countries that made Botswana exporting beef to China a reality.

While some procedures are still being finalized, he said he is optimistic that companies and exporters from Botswana will soon conclude their negotiations with their Chinese counterparts — clearing the way for high-quality Botswana beef to enter the Chinese market.

Botswana beef is internationally recognized for its rich flavor, leanness and tenderness — attributes credited to the country's free-range, natural farming methods.

Although the agreement is yet to materialize, industry stakeholders are already preparing to seize new opportunities.

Botswana's Ministry of International Relations announced on Facebook that Beijing AgriFam plans to invest $75 million in feedlot infrastructure to support beef exports to China. The company has partnered with Chinese investment firm CITIC Group, which will manage the purchase and distribution of Botswana beef across China.

The ministry described it as a strategic partnership with long-term benefits, noting it will help diversify Botswana's export markets beyond traditional destinations such as Europe and reduce vulnerability to geopolitical tensions. "

Access to China's large market can significantly boost Botswana's beef industry, enhance export revenues and invigorate local economies," said Phenyo Butale, Botswana's minister of international relations.

The writer is a freelance journalist for China Daily.