The Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) has suspended its slaughtering schedules whilst Botswana government officials negotiate with the European Union (EU) market.

The announcement was made to farmers over the weekend following the outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) last month.

"The resumption of slaughter at the BMC abattoirs is suspended for one week. BMC requests all producers who have booked quota to hold on until further notice," reads a notice that was sent to farmers Saturday morning.

The negotiations between the government and the Europeans are expected to yield positive results for Botswana's beef industry, which thrives on the EU market.

"When the abattoirs reopen, the producers whose quotas were cancelled will be given priority. BMC apologises to producers but we hope you will see these developments in a positive light," added the statement from BMC.

BMC will update farmers on the latest developments between the government and the EU in due course, according to the statement.

Over the past week, the veterinary officers were travelling across the country in a bid to prevent the spread of the FMD.