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Imports of beef from Brazil remain suspended
12 October 2005
DAFF05/8D
In response to inquiries following a report of a case of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the south western part of Brazil, Biosecurity Australia has confirmed that imports of beef from Brazil to Australia remain suspended.
Imports of beef from Brazil were suspended on 24 December 2004 and will remain suspended until an import policy review is completed.
Biosecurity Australia is conducting a review of the import policy relating to beef from Brazil that will not be finalised until an on-the-ground assessment of Brazil’s zoning and certification arrangements has been completed.
A team from the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service made an initial visit to Brazil to check its certification systems and inspect several slaughter and processing plants in April this year; however, Biosecurity Australia is discussing with Brazilian authorities about when a subsequent on-the-ground assessment can take place as part of its review of the suspended policy.
The reported case of FMD has no impact on Australia as imports of all susceptible products are suspended.
The incident, and Brazil’s response, will be taken into account in Biosecurity Australia’s policy review.
Australia takes a conservative approach to quarantine, and Biosecurity Australia’s role is to protect the favourable health status of Australia’s agriculture, including livestock, by undertaking rigorous, science-based risk assessments.
The review of the red meat import policy will be done in close consultation with Australia’s leading animal health specialists and stakeholders, such as the cattle industry.
Media contact:
John Wilson Biosecurity Australia (02) 6272 3811 or 0438 625 083.