Johannesburg, South Africa — Stretching across the arid Karoo region in South Africa’s semi-arid south, the sparsely populated land harbors a thriving mohair industry, responsible for over half of the world’s mohair output. This luxurious fibre, prized for its lustrous sheen and softness, is a staple in the knitwear market.
Wheatlands farm, dating back to 1912, exemplifies the Karoo’s role in mohair production. Lloyd Short, a seventh-generation farmer, manages around 2,000 goats on his 7,700-hectare property. Their golden fleeces command a premium price, reaching up to 900 rands ($53) per kilogramme. High-end brands, such as Vitale Barberis Canonico, rely on South African mohair for their luxury fabrics.
Despite facing criticism in 2018 following an incident captured by PETA, the mohair industry has since embraced animal welfare improvements. The introduction of an independently audited certification ensures ethical farming practices, helping to rebuild consumer confidence.
South Africa’s mohair sector supports approximately 30,000 jobs, with the Karoo’s unique environment, free from parasites and ticks, proving ideal for angora goats. The Karoo’s contribution to global mohair trade is further solidified by its specialized processing, handled by South African firms Samil and Stucken, which dominate the market.
The Karoo’s unique desert landscape, combined with the skill of local farmers, has cemented the region’s pivotal position in the global mohair trade.
Source: Africanews
