Gabriel Makin talks to agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo about South Africa’s agriculture sector grappling with foot-and-mouth disease, limited vaccine supplies, slow regulation, and severe pressure on farmers. The government’s move to boost private-sector involvement in vaccinations aims to better protect cattle farmers, smallholders, and rural communities while preserving key export markets. Wandile confirms that locally produced meat and dairy remain safe to consume, and he urges embracing new genetic techniques, scientific innovation, and improved seeds to boost productivity and competitiveness. The discussion also highlights growing fruit exports needing new markets, constraints from the Southern African Customs Union, and the urgent need to fix the country’s ports.