Philippines Lifts Import Ban on UK Cattle and Meat Products Following Mad Cow Disease Resolution

The Philippines has lifted its import ban on live cattle and meat products from the United Kingdom following confirmation that the UK has resolved its mad cow disease issue. The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced that Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. issued Memorandum Order No. 45 on October 11, ending the nearly five-month ban. This decision comes after the UK reported to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) that the mad cow disease outbreak was resolved as of August 7, 2024, with no new cases since.

The UK has provided assurances that its food safety measures are aligned with Philippine standards. The DA initially imposed the ban on May 30 to protect public health and safeguard the local livestock sector. Now, all shipments from the UK can resume, subject to verification from the UK Veterinary Authority.