site.btaBulgaria Bans Livestock Markets and Shows

Bulgaria bans livestock markets and shows as of November 10 in view of the heightened risk of outbreaks of some animal diseases. The ban was ordered by Bulgarian Food Safety Agency (BFSA) Executive Director Svetlozar Patarinski and applies to markets for all kinds of domestic animals and poultry, including exotic ones, animal products, and shows of domestic and exotic animals and poultry across the country.

The measure is prompted by the complicated epizootic situation and aims to prevent possible spread of animal diseases, including bird flu, African swine fever, sheep and goat pox. It is also aimed at reducing the significant economic losses that farmers and businesses would incur, the Agriculture Ministry said.

The BFSA ban was issued following on-the-spot meetings of epizootic committees and will be in place until it is explicitly revoked.

Local control will be exercised by the directors of the regional food safety directorates.