United Kingdom lifts FMD restrictions for Germany

The United Kingdom is lifting its restrictions on the import of animals and animal products from Germany, which it had imposed following the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). This means that, among other things, fresh meat and meat products can likely be exported to Great Britain and Northern Ireland again within this week.

Posted on Mar 29 ,00:05

The United Kingdom is by far the most important market for exports from the German agricultural and food industry outside of the EU. The Kingdom of Morocco also recently lifted its extensive import bans on food and feed due to FMD. Following the opening of China and Malaysia's markets for heat-treated dairy products, key sales markets for meat and meat products are now accessible again.

Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture Cem Özdemir stated: "It is great news that the United Kingdom has so quickly recognized our successful efforts and commitment in the fight against foot-and-mouth disease and lifted its far-reaching import restrictions. This is good for our agricultural and food industry, especially for our livestock farms. This gives them access to the most important export market beyond the EU open again for our excellent products from Germany.

The first outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Germany in over 35 years shocked our farmers, the food industry, and politicians at both the state and federal levels. This made it all the more important that all those involved acted quickly and consistently together and initiated the necessary measures. We are now reaping the benefits of this decisive, joint action. My thanks go to everyone who worked with us and made this success possible.

With the Kingdom of Morocco, another important export country is now accessible again. This is another step toward the much-needed normalization of trade. No farmer in Germany should have to abandon their business because of foot-and-mouth disease - that is and remains my goal".