Russia Suspends Cattle Imports From the EU
RUSSIA and EU - Following the spread of the Schmallenberg virus throughout Europe, Russian Authorities have halted the exports of live cattle and sheep meat from some countries in the EU
2 February 2012
1 minute read
"A temporary ban on the import of cattle and a genetic material from them from Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium and France ... has been imposed from February 1, 2012," the watchdog said in a statement, reports RiaNovosti.
Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) reports that sheep meat imports from Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium have been suspended.
The UK as of yet is not included in Russia's import suspensions but, following the recent outbreaks, it may soon find itself included.
The Russian state veterinary service, Rosselkhoznadzor, said that it would initially only ban imports of sheep and goats, along with meat, semen and embryos from both animals, due to concerns over the virus. However in addition to this ban, Russian authorities also announced temporary restrictions on deliveries of live cattle, semen and embryos from Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands and UK to the Russian Federation, states MLA.
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