EU Officially Recognizes Specific Equus Animal Disease-Free Zone in Guangzhou

May 11-EU released Resolution 2010/266 to recognize China s specific equus animal disease-free zone in Guangzhou which is to be listed in the category of countries and regions that can permanently export horses to EU. According to Li Jinxiang, Director-General of MOA Bureau of Veterinary, this is a historic breakthrough for China s effort in the control and prevention of animal diseases to be recognized worldwide, which will help with the development of China s horse-related industry and equestrian sports, and lay a solid foundation for the equestrian contest during the 16th Asian Games in Guangzhou.

In order to create a favorable condition for the Asian Games equestrian contest, since 2007 the Ministry of Agriculture has followed the principle of regional management of animal diseases set by OIE to guide Guangdong Province and Guangzhou City in the construction of specific equus animal disease-free zone. Experts from OIE have been invited for research and guidance in this regard. Experts on animal health risk assessment have been organized to conduct inspection and assessment in the zone, while experts from EU Office of Food and Veterinary have also been invited to inspect relevant work. The strict assessment has acknowledged that the design, measures and the level of animal health of the zone have reached international standards and EU s threshold of horse import.

In the next step, the Ministry of Agriculture will continue to guide competent departments of Guangdong Province and Guangzhou City to secure and improve the construction of the zone, and enhance preparation for the equestrian contest of the Asian Games to ensure its success. Meanwhile, the experience in constructing the specific equus animal disease-free zone will be used to promote the regional management of animal epidemic diseases.