February 3, 2009

South Africa has lifted trade restrictions imposed on Irish pork following the dioxin scare in December.

Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith has described the decision as an important step in the campaign to restore international confidence in Irish pork products.

The South African move follows confirmation from the Japanese authorities that normal arrangements for importing Irish pig meat are continuing.

All Irish pork and bacon products were removed from circulation worldwide as a result of the dioxin contamination scare.

There were fears that the move could affect international confidence in Irish produce well into the future.