In a series of official announcements, the General Administration of Customs and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the People’s Republic of China have declared the revocation of certain import restrictions. These decisions are based on meticulous risk assessments, affirming the absence of avian influenza and foot-and-mouth disease in specific regions of Kazakhstan, as well as the reassessment of regulations pertaining to Spanish beef. This marks a significant development in international trade relationships and underlines the commitment to facilitating the importation of agricultural products in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations.

Rescinding the Ban on High Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Kazakhstan (Customs Notice and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Notice 2024 No. 21):

In response to the risk analysis results, as of the date of this announcement, China recognizes the entire territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan as free from high pathogenic avian influenza. Consequently, the importation of Kazakh poultry and related products that comply with Chinese laws and regulations is now permitted. This action nullifies the previous prohibition stated in the joint announcement (No. 531) made by the Ministry of Agriculture and the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine in 2005 concerning the avian influenza epidemic in Kazakhstan.

Partial Repeal of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Ban in Certain Regions of Kazakhstan (Customs Notice and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Notice 2024 No. 20):

Following a thorough risk analysis, China now designates Almaty, Zhetsu, Shyghys kazakstan, Abai, Jambyl, Turkistan, Kyzylorda, Almaty City, and Shymkent in Kazakhstan as foot-and-mouth disease-free regions. Animals and related products from these areas that meet Chinese legal requirements are now permitted for importation. This action overrides the prohibition outlined in the joint notice (Document No. 4 of 2022) issued by the General Administration of Customs and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs concerning the prevention of foot-and-mouth disease transmission from Kazakhstan.

Lifting the Ban on Spanish Beef (Customs Notice and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Notice 2024 No. 22):

Based on a comprehensive risk assessment, China officially lifts the ban on boneless beef from Spain below the age of 30 months. The previous ban, articulated in the joint announcement (No. 143) made by the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau in 2001, is hereby rescinded. Specific inspection and quarantine requirements for the importation of Spanish beef below 30 months of age will be separately formulated.

These official announcements by the General Administration of Customs and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs reflect China’s commitment to international cooperation in agriculture and trade. By carefully evaluating risks and aligning with current regulations, China opens its market to specific agricultural products from Kazakhstan and Spain, fostering stronger economic ties and benefiting consumers on both sides.

FAQ Section

Q: What is the purpose of the announcements from the General Administration of Customs and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs regarding Kazakhstan?

A: The announcements aim to lift the restrictions on the importation of poultry, related products, and certain animal products from Kazakhstan, based on a risk analysis that indicates the absence of highly pathogenic avian influenza and foot-and-mouth disease in specific regions.

Q: When do the announcements take effect?

A: The announcements are effective from the date of their publication.

Q: Are there specific regions mentioned in the announcements regarding Kazakhstan?

A: Yes, specific regions such as Almaty, Zhetsu, Shyghys kazakstan, Abai, Jambyl, Turkistan, Kyzylorda, Almaty city, and Shymkent are recognized as foot-and-mouth disease-free zones.

Q: What about the restrictions on beef imports from Spain mentioned in the latest announcement?

A: The announcement lifts the ban on boneless beef from Spain aged below 30 months, with revised inspection and quarantine requirements.

News from General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China