Germany’s first foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in over three decades has triggered international export restrictions on its meat and dairy products, delivering a significant blow to the EU’s largest economy. The outbreak, which originated in water buffalo on a farm in Brandenburg, has resulted in the country losing its foot-and-mouth disease-free status under World Organisation for Animal Health protocols.
The impact has been swift and severe, with South Korea immediately halting German pork imports and quarantining 360 tonnes of meat delivered since late December. Mexico has followed suit, implementing a ban on German pork products, whilst the Netherlands has imposed restrictions on calf transport within its borders.
The timing could not be worse for Germany’s struggling economy, as the country prepares for an early election following the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition. Local authorities in Brandenburg and neighbouring Berlin have implemented a six-day transport halt for susceptible animals to facilitate investigations.
British officials have responded by engaging with German counterparts and devolved administrations to prevent disease spread through imported goods. The British Meat Processors Association has called for immediate implementation of preventative measures, including antiseptic mats at ports, stations and airports.
The outbreak marks a significant concern for European agriculture, as foot-and-mouth disease is estimated to affect 77 per cent of the global livestock population. Historical context adds weight to these concerns, with the UK’s 2001 outbreak resulting in the culling of 6.5 million animals and generating costs exceeding £8 billion across agricultural and tourism sectors.
Whilst trade of livestock products from unaffected German regions remains possible within the EU, the full economic impact of these restrictions remains unclear. The situation threatens to reignite farmer discontent in Germany, following recent protests over agricultural policy changes.
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