Hanoi (VNA) – The Philippines has imposed a temporary ban on the importation of live cattle and buffalo and their by-products from France and Italy to prevent the entry of the lumpy skin disease (LSD) virus into the country, its Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on August 11.
The DA said that the ban is necessary to protect the Philippines' cattle and water buffalo populations. The restrictions cover live bovines and water buffaloes, including semen and embryos.
However, skeletal muscle meat, casings, gelatin and collagen, tallow, hooves, and horns are considered “safe commodities“ and, therefore, excluded from the temporary ban, but subject to the country's import terms and conditions.
Certain products are allowed, but also with conditions. For example, milk and milk products should have attestation in their international veterinary certificates confirming it has undergone pasteurisation or a similar process.
According to the DA, the import restriction will remain in effect until further notice, depending on developments in disease prevention and control efforts in affected countries.
The ban followed official confirmation of LSD outbreaks from the respective chief veterinary officers and delegates of Italy and France to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
On June 23, French authorities reported an LSD outbreak. Italian officials reported a similar outbreak on July 18./.
