New measures to protect pigs from African swine fever

New measures to restrict pork imports from the EU will be introduced in the Isle of Man tomorrow in a bid to minimise the risk posed by African swine fever (ASF).

The contagious disease, which does not affect humans, is currently spreading through mainland Europe leading to the deaths of thousands of pigs and causing significant disruption to the meat trade. This has led to concern about its potential arrival in the British Isles through non-commercial imports.

At this time, no outbreaks have been reported in the British Isles.

The Isle of Man's new regulations will align it to similar measures in the UK, which require EU pork imports to meet strict production, packaging, and labelling standards. They must also arrive by a border control post with export health certification, unless they are transhipped or intended for personal use, and weigh less than 2kg, in which case the products still need to be manufactured and packaged to EU commercial standards.

Dr Amy Beckett, Chief Veterinary Officer, said:

'This precautionary action is being taken to prevent the introduction of the virus to the Island, and to protect hundreds of Manx pigs.'

According to the UK Animal and Plant Health Agency, the most likely way ASF could enter Great Britain is through a member of the public bringing pork or pork products from an affected country in their luggage or vehicle.

Dr Beckett added:

'The restrictions target both backyard production and illegal commercial imports that attempt to bypass health certifications and border checks by claiming larger quantities of pork products are for personal use.'

Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:

'As a Government, it is our responsibility to safeguard the health and welfare of our livestock, which is a vital part of the Island's agriculture and our economy.

'We strongly advise all travellers to avoid bringing, buying, ordering on the internet, or requesting any pork products - for example, fresh or frozen meat, dried or cured meats, sausages, salamis, or pâté - to the Isle of Man from affected parts of Europe.'

For further information on the new measures, please contact DEFA on +44 1624 685844.

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