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Cattle tags and animal identification (NAITS)
All cattle must be tagged and registered under the national animal identification and traceability system; it is the main defence against praedial larceny.
- Agency
- Ministry of Agriculture — Veterinary Services Division / RADA
- Cost
- Tags issued through the programme (verify any fee)
- Time
- 2—4 weeks
- Contact
- RADA Westmoreland · 876-955-2616 · Veterinary Services Division · 876-977-2492 · Praedial Larceny hotline 876-977-0200
- Online
- https://rada.gov.jm
Steps
- Be a registered RADA farmer (see that guide).
- Request tags through the RADA office or the Veterinary Services Division; an officer tags and records each animal.
- Keep the animal register updated for births, sales and deaths; movements need a movement permit.
- When selling, the buyer receives the tag record and your receipt-book receipt.
Tips
- Untagged cattle cannot be lawfully sold to a licensed butcher; buyers increasingly refuse them.
- Report theft immediately with tag numbers to the Praedial Larceny Unit.
Last updated 17 Oct 2026. Spotted a change? Email westmorelandchamber2023@gmail.com.