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Animal health controls are a fundamental aspect of international trade in live animals or related genetic material, products for animal feed, and veterinary medicines. In the specific case of the Canary Islands, given their fragility as islands and the significant biodiversity they possess, animal health controls are even more stringent.
Animal Health Control in importation to the Canary Islands
When it comes to imports to the Canary Islands, animal health is an undeniable priority. From live animals to products for animal feed and veterinary medicines, each shipment must undergo rigorous controls to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases that could affect both local fauna and the livestock and agricultural industry in the region.
What goods are regulated by animal health in importation and what is the process?
- Live animals (except fish, mollusks, crustaceans intended for human consumption…).
- Genetic material (embryos, semen, ova).
- Products for animal feed.
- Veterinary medicines.
For the importation of these types of products, prior notification is required before the cargo arrives, making it essential to have a Customs Agency in the Canary Islands to ensure that there are no problems throughout the process. Additionally, it is essential to provide all required documentation such as the commercial invoice, the Single Administrative Document (SAD), and the European sanitary certificate obtained by the exporter.
Once the merchandise arrives in the Canary Islands, different controls are carried out depending on the type of product. These controls may include physical inspections, sampling, or simply documentary control. It is important to highlight that not all merchandise can be imported from any country; there is a list of countries authorized for the exportation of certain products.
Additionally, not all companies can export certain types of products; there are lists of authorized establishments for exportation to the European Union. These measures ensure that imported goods meet the established animal health standards and contribute to protecting public health and food safety in the EU territory.
You can consult the list of authorized establishments by clicking here.
Animal Health Control in exportation to the Canary Islands
When exporting products from the Canary Islands to other destinations, animal health remains a key priority. Merchandise intended for exportation must comply with strict animal health standards established at both the national and European levels. This ensures that products are safe for human consumption and comply with the sanitary requirements of the receiving countries. Furthermore, compliance with these standards strengthens the reputation of the Canary Islands as a reliable supplier of high-quality products in the international market.
What goods are regulated by animal health in exportation and what is the process?
- Live animals.
- Genetic material (ova, embryos, semen).
- Animal feed and other animal-use products.
- Products of animal origin (POA) not intended for human consumption.
- Products of animal origin (POA) intended for human consumption.
In the case of exports of goods subject to animal health control, it is commonly necessary to present a veterinary export certificate to the authorities of the importing country. These certificates can be of two types: generic, when the importing country does not require specific requirements, or specific, when the importing country establishes requirements that may be the same as or different from those of the European Union, and a certified model reflecting these requirements is required.
In certain cases and for certain products, the importing country may allow the entry of goods without the need for a veterinary certificate. However, this exception is limited and subject to the specific regulations of the importing country.
Before proceeding with exportation, operators must consult the requirements demanded by the importing country and request the issuance of the relevant veterinary certificate. This process ensures compliance with the regulations and sanitary requirements of the importing country, which is fundamental for the success and legality of exportations of products subject to veterinary control.
In conclusion, animal health controls play a vital role in protecting animal health, food safety, and ecosystem preservation in the Canary Islands. Through the implementation of rigorous measures in the importation and exportation of live animals, genetic material, products for animal feed, and veterinary medicines, safe and responsible trade is ensured, contributing to the welfare of both animals and the general population. Additionally, export controls preserve the reputation of the Canary Islands as a reliable international provider.
