Hargeisa (Horn post) Somaliland is moving to scale up livestock exports ahead of the Hajj season, as the Ports Authority convened a high-level coordination meeting with exporters and key institutions in Hargeisa.
Ports Authority Manager Ali Diriye Ahmed met with livestock traders and stakeholders including the Ministry of Livestock, Customs authorities, DP World, and security agencies to address bottlenecks and improve operational efficiency at Berbera port.
The meeting was also attended by Berbera Customs Manager Ahmed Abdirahman Harir, who pledged to expedite the processing of taxes on livestock exports to ensure faster clearance and smoother trade flows during the Hajj season.
Discussions focused on accelerating export procedures, strengthening coordination between agencies, and ensuring that port services can handle the surge in demand typically seen during the Hajj livestock season. Officials emphasized the need for faster clearance processes, improved logistics, and tighter security to maintain export standards.
Participants agreed to align their efforts and fast-track operations in preparation for the season, which is scheduled to begin on May 2, 2026.
Analysis:
Livestock exports remain the backbone of Somaliland’s economy, particularly during the Hajj season when demand from Gulf markets sharply increases. Any delays or inefficiencies at the port can directly impact revenues for traders and government institutions.
This coordinated push signals a proactive attempt to avoid past disruptions, especially around shipment delays, health certification processes, and port congestion. The inclusion of DP World and security agencies highlights the importance of both infrastructure readiness and regulatory oversight.
If effectively implemented, these measures could enhance Somaliland’s competitiveness in regional livestock markets, particularly against exporters from neighboring countries. However, sustained success will depend on execution during peak export periods, not just pre-season planning.
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Prepared by:
Horn post staff
