Zambia Partially Lifts Suspension on Livestock Imports From South Africa

The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has partially lifted the suspension on the importation of cloven-hoofed animals and their products from South Africa, following improvements in that country's Foot-and-Mouth Disease situation.

Director of Veterinary Services Dr Charles Maseka said the latest veterinary risk assessment now allows selected products to be imported on a case-by-case basis, subject to strict import conditions and veterinary approval.

The products eligible for importation include cloven-hoofed animals, subject to stipulated import guidelines and veterinary requirements; processed dairy products, including Ultra-High Temperature milk and its derivatives; and heat-treated meat products packed in hermetically sealed containers, commonly known as tinned meat.

Dr Maseka said every application will undergo a thorough veterinary risk assessment before an import permit is issued, and advised importers, livestock producers, traders and other stakeholders to consult the Department of Veterinary Services before placing orders to ensure compliance with Zambia's import requirements.

The Ministry thanked stakeholders for their cooperation during the period the restrictions were in force and urged continued adherence to animal health and biosecurity regulations.

The statement was issued by Benny Munyama, Principal Public Relations Officer for the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock.