June 6, 2008

China to further tighten pork processing regulations
 
 
China's government has required that hog slaughter can only be performed by certified processors effective August 1, 2008, as part of the country's campaign to ensure safety and promote modernisation in the sector.

For processors to become certified under the new regulations, they must meet national standards on abattoir facilities and equipment, water quality, environmental protection and inspection and quarantine.

Furthermore, certified facilities must have an animal epidemic prevention certificate and separate equipment and areas for pollution-free treatment of ill hogs. 

Abattoir technicians must also have legal health certificates and inspectors must pass a pork product quality inspection examination. 

Chinese processors that do not meet the new regulations will be required to cease operations, with certain exceptions for farmers in remote and rural areas. 

The local governments are also restricted on selling hog products from quarantined and certified facilities outside of the local market.