PH Bans Imports of Animals Susceptible to Foot-and-Mouth Disease from Türkiye

The Philippines has issued a temporary ban on the import of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) susceptible animals and related products from Türkiye following a recent outbreak. The ban, ordered by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. through Memorandum Order No. 42, aims to prevent FMD transmission to the local animal population.

Details:
The decision follows Türkiye’s report to the World Organization for Animal Health regarding an FMD outbreak in Kirsehir Province affecting cattle. Effective immediately, the ban includes:

• Prohibition on the import of FMD-susceptible animals, products, and by-products.
• Suspension of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances for affected commodities.
• Allowance for shipments that were in transit before the order, provided they were processed on or before August 26, 2024.

The Department of Agriculture will maintain the ban until a reassessment deems it safe to lift.