Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) has taken a significant step in expanding its meat supply sources by enabling the import of frozen red meat for processing from South American countries.
Response to Supply Shortages in the EU Market
The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of BiH announced that, in collaboration with the Veterinary Office of BiH, they have worked diligently to resolve issues and establish conditions for importing frozen red meat from countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. This decision comes at the request of meat processors from the Federation of BiH, who have been struggling with a shortage of raw materials from the European Union (EU).
Staša Košarac, the relevant Minister, explained that the meat processing industry in BiH faced significant challenges due to global disruptions, including a decline in livestock numbers and the closure of farms in the EU. Other issues such as energy shortages further exacerbated the situation, negatively impacting meat processors in BiH.
Opening New Markets for Meat Processors
The Ministry, along with the Veterinary Office of BiH, has been working intensively over the past two months to eliminate obstacles and open alternative markets for frozen red meat imports. Košarac emphasized that the completion of the necessary procedures last week has already led to contracts being signed, providing relief to meat processors in the Federation of BiH.
“We have made significant progress by enabling access to alternative markets, which will help mitigate the impact of disruptions in the European market,” said Košarac. This move aims to diversify the sources of raw materials for BiH’s meat processing industry and reduce reliance on the European market.
Stringent Control Measures for Imported Meat
The import of frozen red meat will be subject to strict veterinary and sanitary controls, ensuring the quality and safety of the raw materials. The Veterinary Office of BiH will conduct thorough inspections, focusing on factors such as the age of the meat—ensuring that it is no older than six months—and its microbiological safety.
Minister Košarac emphasized the importance of these controls, highlighting that the government remains committed to maintaining high standards in meat imports. Despite challenges from the EU market, BiH is determined to continue pursuing policies that open new markets and support the country’s economic growth.
“We are committed to expanding market opportunities for our domestic industry and improving overall foreign trade,” said Košarac. This initiative marks a crucial step in securing the supply of meat for processing in BiH, ensuring stability for the country’s meat industry.
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