November 28, 2011
Russia lifts ban on Japanese beef imports
The temporary ban on Japanese beef imports has been lifted by Russia's Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Oversight, the service said on Friday (Nov 25).
The ban was enforced in May after outbreaks of aphthous fever were reported in Japan. The Russian watchdog lifted the ban after the service examined measures taken by Japanese authorities to eliminate the effects from the outbreaks.
Aphthous fever is a highly contagious, viral infection of cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, deer, sheep, goats, and pigs. The disease is characterized by lesions on the mouth, nostrils, feet, and udders.
