The Azores may see their position in the meat market strengthened in a context of rising prices at European level, driven by health outbreaks that have affected production in several countries, among other factors.

The Region has health status recognized by the European Commission for several animal diseases, which may open up new export opportunities.

“The excellence of animal health at the regional level enhances the distinction of the quality of animal products produced here, contributes to a significant improvement in public health in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, creates new opportunities in terms of exports to other markets, and promotes animal welfare,” summarizes the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food, in information provided to DI-Diário Insular newspaper.

The Regional Government body refers to the existence of the Regional Veterinary Laboratory, accredited to carry out various analyses, as an essential pillar.

The regional secretariat also recalls the importance of Ordinance No. 84/2023 of September 28, which prohibited the importation of live production animals into the Azores, a measure that has prevented the entry of diseases such as Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD), responsible for mass slaughter and supply shortages in beef markets in Europe.

“This is a disease that affects ruminants, with vector transmission by mosquitoes, and is included in the list of notifiable diseases of the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE),” it points out.

The eradication of bovine brucellosis is highlighted. “It was a disease that caused enormous damage throughout the world and also in the Region, not only because it is a zoonosis, but also because it prevented trade in live cattle and restricted the consumption of animal products. Following a successful strategy, this disease has been eradicated in the Region,” reinforces the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture.

In Diário Insular, José Lourenço-director.

Translated into English as a community outreach program by the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL), in collaboration with Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno. PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.