The Agriculture Minister Calls for Urgent Measures for the Sheep and Goat Sector in Brussels

Romania, together with Bulgaria, Cyprus, Croatia and Greece, called on the European Commission in Brussels on Tuesday to take urgent measures to support the sheep and goat sector, which has been affected by restrictions imposed amid the spread of disease outbreaks. The issue was added to the agenda of the agriculture ministers’ meeting after the ban on sheep exports caused significant economic losses for farmers and the industry.

The five countries are calling for more flexible and proportionate restrictions based on risk assessment. Healthy animals from unaffected farms and areas should be allowed to be moved and marketed, subject to strengthened veterinary controls. The countries are also calling for an analysis of the role of vaccination against Category A diseases, the facilitation of the movement within the European Union of vaccinated animals and derived products, and the continuation of exports to third countries.

Romania also supports adapting European animal health rules to the epidemiological situation and to scientific and technological advances. Compensation is also being requested for lost income, additional feeding and maintenance costs, and lost markets.

Last week, ANSVSA President Alexandru Bociu estimated that Romanian sheep exports could resume by the end of the year. The national vaccination campaign is expected to begin around October 1 and last between 30 and 45 days.