Monday, July 16, 2007


Jul. 16, 2007 (Agência Estado delivered by Newstex) -- Geneva, 16 - The European Commission has formally refused to accept British and Irish producers' pleas to impose an immediate embargo on Brazilian beef, but will send new missions of veterinarians to inspect sanitary conditions of the product.

The Commission's department of veterinarians refused to accept evidence from representatives and lobbyists, including photographs and videos of purported deplorable and unsanitary conditions. It has, however, been established that Brazil must improve its sanitary conditions by the end of the year or an embargo will be evaluated as a real possibility.

The European Union currently has embargoes against beef imports from the Brazilian states of São Paulo, Paranà and Mato Grosso do Sul due to foot and mouth disease.

One argument for an embargo against exporters in Rio Grande do Sul is the impossibility of transport control between states and alleged purchase of cattle from Paranà for export, due to lack of supply in Rio Grande do Sul.

Arguments were countered and the Commission took it upon itself to defend Brazil, rare occurrence in the block. According to veterinarians, cattle movement control is practiced all over the country and is a fundamental part in impeding the spread of foot and mouth disease between states. (Jamil Chade)

Newstex ID: AGE-0001-18170786


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