The impact of intensified investigations into the abuse of goats during shearing, which has already resulted in the suspension of two farms from participating in mohair sales, will have an insignificant impact on mohair exports.
This according to Mohair South Africa managing director, Deon Saayman, who told FTW Online that allegations made by Peta (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) of cruel practices on South African mohair farms were distorted.
“The allegations made in recent reports were a gross misrepresentation of the South African mohair industry, and only involved a very small portion of the industry,” he said. “That being said, we are intensifying our sustainability assessments and third-party audits, and should any producers be found in contravention of our industry’s sustainable guidelines, strict action will be taken against these individuals.”
Saayman said that Peta’s investigators had only visited 12 mohair farms in South Africa while there were over 700 commercial farmers producing mohair in the country.
Several large retailers such as H&M, Zara and Gap have ordered their stores to withdraw all mohair products as a result of Peta’s claims.
“We are saddened by the reaction from large retailers who never contacted us for more information before making these decisions,” said Saayman. “However, we have since been in contact with them and are constantly engaging with international role-players regarding the reports and their perceptions of the South African mohair industry.”
He added that by changing international perceptions of local industry, the South African mohair industry could perhaps create opportunities for new entrants into the market, which would promote industry growth.