Romania secures approval for sheep and goat export resumption

Romania has successfully received approval from the European Commission to unlock its exports of sheep and goats. This important milestone comes after the plan was validated by all 27 member states, marking a significant step forward for the country's agricultural sector.

The National Sanitary Veterinary and Food Safety Authority (ANSVSA) announced that the approved action plan includes a differentiated immunization scheme. Brussels has committed to support this vaccination initiative by providing a free contingent of 1.3 million doses of vaccine.

Regions of Tulcea and Constanța have been identified as high-risk areas, where simultaneous vaccination against Small Ruminant Plague (SRP) and Sheep and Goat Pox (SGP) will take place. Export activities from these counties will be directed solely to third countries that accept vaccinated animals, while the rest of the national territory will focus on vaccination against SGP only.

To maintain the official status of 'free from SRP' and protect traditional livestock deliveries, Romania has already signed vaccination agreements with six third countries: Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Morocco, Tunisia, Israel, and Libya. Additionally, negotiations for seven other similar treaties are underway.

The effective resumption of transport is contingent upon the official publication of the European Commission's decision. ANSVSA has also highlighted the importance of combatting illegal animal trade, which could jeopardize the adoption of this new European decision. To address this, road controls and inspections on farms will be intensified in collaboration with the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Despite the challenges, the decision comes after approximately 19,000 sheep were sacrificed in 2026 to limit outbreaks, a number that represents only 0.13% of the total national livestock. Importantly, the plan approved by Brussels does not impact the export of carcasses, milk, and dairy products, ensuring that these vital sectors remain unaffected.