Here's why oxtail prices nearly doubled

JOHANNESBURG - Oxtail prices have nearly doubled due to restrictions on Argentine imports, which are causing a supply squeeze. Earlier this year, oxtail sold for around R79 to R99 per kilogram, but now it costs as much as R169 to R199. South Africa heavily depends on imports, with about 70% of its imported oxtail coming from Argentina. The Association of Meat Importers and Exporters (AMIE) notes that revised veterinary requirements are preventing some Argentine suppliers from exporting oxtail and other bone-in beef products to South Africa. AMIE is requesting the Agriculture Department to provide scientific evidence for these additional restrictions, as they are exacerbating financial strain on consumers.