Romania could resume pork products export

A decision could be made in the second half of 2008, following an evaluation by an EU mission of the local processing units, he told NewsIn agency.

According to Minea, the National Authority for Animal Health and Food Safety (ANSVSA) is to file the request with the EC. “This is the only way to resume exports, as Romania will continue vaccination of pigs,” Minea said. According to EU regulations, the meat of vaccinated animals cannot be exported. However, local authorities say vaccines are necessary to avoid diseases such as swine fever.

With the lohn system, Romania could export some 20 percent of pork products made locally with imported raw materials. The ban on exports and intra-community exchanges is currently responsible for losses worth an annual €250 million, according to food industry employers unions. (NewsIn)