Agriculture Ministry introduces temporary administrative measure to facilitate movement of untagged cattle for slaughter

July 31, 2026

The Agriculture Ministry has introduced a temporary administrative measure to facilitate the transportation of untagged cattle for slaughter.

The measure, which came into effect yesterday, will continue until September 30.

The Ministry says it is in response to delays in the cattle tagging process under the national animal identification and traceability system, which have affected the ability of farmers to lawfully transport and sell cattle and butchers to accept cattle for slaughter.

The challenges have been particularly evident in St. Elizabeth, Manchester, Clarendon, and St. Catherine.

Persons transporting untagged cattle for slaughter during the period must present a valid farmer identification card and a valid agricultural produce receipt.

Untagged cattle that are not accompanied by the prescribed documentation or for which ownership cannot be satisfactorily verified will remain subject to enforcement action under the regulations.