EFFORTS are being exerted to establish a Foot and Mouth Disease Free Zone in eight townships, Nay Pyi Taw and export frozen meat, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation.
The FMD control zone has been implemented starting from 11 June 2021 in eight townships, with a free vaccination programme under the department’s fund. The FMD control zone can be declared on 13 February 2023. Once the FMD-free zone can be declared, frozen meat produced from that area will be exported.
The ministry laid down a policy to establish Animal Quarantine Station (AQS), FMD Free Zone, FMD Protection Zone and FMD Control Zone, the Union Minister addressed.
Efforts are made to link with the ministries of the importing countries and to ship meat to foreign trade partners upon recognition of FMD-free status. Those interested livestock producers and frozen meat processors can contact the Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department in Nay Pyi Taw.
Business entities are encouraged to seek work permits so that they can export frozen meat once it is permitted. The livestock sector’s exports contribute to Gross Domestic Product. — ASH/KK
