Namibia’s Meatco is facing mounting financial pressure following the suspension of beef exports [SOUND]

# Meat Corporation of Namibia says its monthly wage bill for nearly 800 employees is unsustainable without export income. This follows the suspension of international beef exports in September due to the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. International markets historically account for approximately 85-percent of Meatco’s earnings. The company has suspended slaughter operations until its financial and operational circumstances allow for their sustainable resumption. Meatco spokesperson Undamuje Hambira says the board is exploring options to protect jobs and restore sustainable operations: