BREAKING: EU suspends Namibian meat imports over FMD

By: Elizabeth Naftal

The European Union (EU) has suspended certain Namibian meat imports following an FMD outbreak confirmed on 23 September at a commercial farm in the Karasburg State Veterinary District, //Kharas Region.

In a statement released on Monday, the EU said the suspension affects fresh meat from cattle, sheep and goats, as well as certain processed meat products, including biltong and jerky.

The suspension applies to Namibia’s previously FMD-free zone and could affect farmers, meat exporters, abattoirs and processors.

Fresh meat certified by Namibian authorities before 23 September may still enter the EU within 90 days from the outbreak date, subject to EU border controls.

EU Ambassador to Namibia, Ana Beatriz Martins, said Namibia has responded “with speed and transparency” and commended the country’s veterinary services for their professional response.

She said the EU stands ready to continue working with the Namibian Government and veterinary authorities to contain the outbreak and protect farmers’ livelihoods.

The EU said the restrictions are precautionary and do not change Namibia’s preferential trade access under the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement.