February 14, 2012

Russia prohibits EU cattle imports

Russia's state veterinary service, Rosselkhoznadzor, has prohibited imports of sheep, goats, and cattle from Germany, Netherlands, UK, Belgium and France, in response to the Schmallenberg virus.

However, Rosselkhoznadzor has also confirmed in a subsequent statement that Russia will ban imports of beef, along with genetic materials. Total EU beef exports to Russia in the first 11 months of 2011 totalled 128,498 tonnes. Russia was the EU's second largest beef export market in 2011, with beef exports valued at US$454 million for the first 10 months of the same year.

European officials have stated that the trade restrictions are unnecessary, as the virus is believed to pose no threat to humans. However, the European Commission has requested urgent scientific evidence and technical assistance for any possible risks resulting from the virus. Rosselkhoznadzor has commented that it is seriously concerned by the absence of measures to limit animal movements from affected regions.