The Department of Agriculture (DA) has imposed a temporary ban on the importation of live animals and animal products from Greece following reported cases of foot-and-mouth disease in the European country.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. issued the order through Department Circular No. 20, which immediately restricts the entry of livestock and related products to protect the local animal industry.
The DA said the measure was prompted by Greece’s report of foot-and-mouth disease cases in domestic sheep in Lesvos on April 6.
Under the directive, the issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances for affected goods was suspended, while stricter inspection measures were enforced at ports of entry.
The ban covers live swine, cattle, raw meat, and untreated milk, although selected processed products may still be allowed if they meet international safety standards and conditions.
Shipments already in transit before the order took effect may still be admitted, provided these were produced or slaughtered on or before February 28 and comply with existing guidelines.
Non-compliant shipments will be confiscated or disposed of in accordance with existing regulations, the DA said.
Tiu Laurel said the restriction was a precautionary move to protect livestock, ensure food security, and maintain stability in the agriculture sector, adding that the policy will be reviewed depending on global disease developments.