Technical Update on Export Health Certificates: Future Slaughter Date Clearances
Introduction
HallMark Veterinary & Compliance Services is committed to keeping our Official Veterinarians (OVs), export clients and stakeholders informed about significant regulatory updates that impact the export of Products of Animal Origin (POAO). A recent development from the Centre for International Trade – Carlisle (CITC) introduces a change in the process for obtaining Export Health Certificates (EHC), specifically regarding disease clearance for future slaughter dates.
Background
Traditionally, Notifiable Disease Clearances (618NDC) for EHC applications of meat, meat products, and by-products were only provided for dates of slaughter that had already occurred. This posed challenges for the industry, especially when exporting fresh products shortly after slaughter, due to the constrained timeframe for making export applications and receiving the necessary EHC.
New Procedure for Notifiable Disease Clearances
To address these challenges and streamline the export process, CITC has implemented a new procedure:
Future Slaughter Dates: CITC will now process EHC applications where slaughter dates are in the future, provided they fall within the validity period of the 618NDC.
Validity Period: The 618NDC currently holds a validity of 15 days from the date of issue.
Application Window: Exporters can apply with details of premises and future slaughter dates up to 15 days from the application date.
Accuracy is Crucial: It is imperative that exporters provide accurate slaughter dates for each application. In the event of a disease outbreak, CITC must be able to trace products originating from affected areas within specific date ranges.
Importance of the Update
This update is a significant step forward in supporting the industry's needs, offering exporters more flexibility and efficiency in planning and executing their export operations. By allowing for disease clearance for future slaughter dates, the CITC is enabling a smoother, more predictable export process for fresh products of animal origin.
Further Information
For additional details or inquiries regarding this update, please contact the CITC:
Email: processingteam@apha.gov.uk
Telephone: 0300 0300 201
Conclusion
HallMark Veterinary & Compliance Services welcomes this procedural update as a positive development for the export sector. We are dedicated to supporting our clients through these changes, ensuring that the transition to the new process is as seamless as possible. Our team remains available to assist with any questions or concerns regarding this update or any other export-related matters.
Stay informed about the latest industry updates and regulatory changes with HallMark Veterinary & Compliance Services. Together, we continue to navigate the complexities of the export sector, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and success for our clients.
