May 23, 2007

Russia lifts limitations on beef imports from Sweden

Russia's Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Oversight (Rosselkhoznadzor) has partially lifted its ban of beef imports from Sweden, according to its press secretary Alexei Alekseyenko.

The decision was made "after a detailed analysis of the situation as regards the mad cow disease (bovine spongiform encephalopathy) in Sweden," he said.

Alekseyenko, however said temporary limitations on Swedish livestock remain.

The restrictions were imposed on April 3, 2006.

The agency has allowed importing Swedish boneless beef and beef products certified by a joint inspection of experts from Rosselkhoznadzor and the Swedish veterinary service beginning with May 21, Alekseyenko said.