September 24, 2008
Russia suspends beef import from Brazilian state Tocantins
Russia has banned imports of cattle and beef from Brazilian state Tocantins, effective September 23, due to an outbreak of vesicular stomatitis, a viral disease that mainly affects cattle, swine and horses.
Cattle is the cheapest in the state therefore it is believed the ban on meat export should not affect prices.
Brazil's veterinary service will investigate the case and findings would be forwarded to Russia, after which a decision would be taken either to stop supplies or remove the ban.
Brazil is the world's leading beef exporter, shipping to Russia US$967.6 million worth of beef in 2007.
