Photos: UAE lifts ban on trade of Jaziri sheep, goats

Dubai - The decision comes following comprehensive stringent safety regulations introduced to govern the import of Jaziri sheep and goats.

Jaziri sheep and goats can now be imported and traded in UAE markets, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (Moccae) announced on Friday. The two breeds had been banned since 2014 due to safety concerns over their consumption.
The decision comes following comprehensive stringent safety regulations introduced to govern the import of Jaziri sheep and goats. All animals must be tagged, lab-tested, and receive presumptive treatment for external and internal parasites in their country of origin. In addition, they will undergo visual examinations and laboratory tests, and sprayed with insecticides at the port of entry in the UAE.
Earlier this week, the first consignment of Jaziri sheep and goats entered the UAE through Al Hamriya Port in Dubai. Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, toured the livestock testing and quarantine facilities at the port to review the health and safety measures in place firsthand.
Dr Al Nuaimi said: "Food safety and security are now at the top of our agenda. Moccae remains committed to ongoing monitoring and upgrades of veterinary facilities at the country's ports of entry to ensure compliance with the highest global standards across all operations."
He added: "The ministry's decision to ban the imports of certain breeds of livestock testify to its keenness to protect consumer health. The lifting of the ban is a result of the export markets' ability to meet our rigorous food safety standards. If they fail to do so, we ensure the provision of safe alternatives in line with our drive to boost food diversity."
To enhance national food security, the UAE is expected to receive multiple consignments of Jaziri sheep and goats in the fourth quarter of this year as Moccae explores various export markets for the two breeds.
reporets@khalejtimes.com 

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• Dubai