Importation of Live Animals from Greece Suspended by DA

DA Issues Import Ban on Live Animals from Greece Over FMD Outbreak

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Agriculture (DA) has temporarily suspended the importation of live animals and related animal products from Greece following the reported outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the country.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. issued Department Circular No. 20 banning the importation of FMD-susceptible animals and related by-products from Greece after FMD cases were reported in domestic sheep in Lesvos on April 6. The DA said the temporary import ban and stricter controls are intended to protect livestock health, food security, and the agricultural economy, with the restriction subject to regular review based on global disease developments.