FMD strikes Argentina

The Argentinian veterinary authority has enlarged the area under restriction to prevent a further spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). According to the government, it is not possible to fully assess the disease situation in this area at the present time.

This has important consequences for European meat importers. In September this year, following an outbreak of FMD disease in the province of Salta, the European Commission adopted a decision suspending the importation into the EU of de-boned and maturated bovine meat.

As a result of the present uncertainty, the standing committee on the food chain and animal health has voted in favour of a Commission proposal to extend the area from which the importation of de-boned and maturated meat is suspended. The new decision will apply to the whole territory of the provinces of Formosa, Salta, Chaco and Jujuy.

Meat from other regions of Argentina that are free of FMD can continue to be imported into the EU in accordance with existing import rules.