Bolivia announces first FMD-free zone
Bolivia's livestock sector is celebrating the prospect of the first certified FMD-free zone in the country. The new status means exports of beef and beef products could begin soon without the current restrictions.
The minister of agriculture, Walter Nunez, said that the San Ignacio de Velasco region will officially become the first ever FMD-free zone in the country on March 24. The minister added that the removal of restrictions would allow beef from 600,000 cattle to be exported not only to neighbouring countries but also to Europe, Bolivia's main target market.
Although the size of Bolivia’s livestock sector is relatively small, the development could herald the start of greater hide availability in South America.
Up until now, Bolivian leather - which is very low quality - has only been exported to Peru and Chile. Improvements in slaughterhouse and packing facilities will be essential if the country hopes to expand its export market. The main problems for hide quality in Bolivia are climate and diet, but the region of Santa Cruz de la Sierra is now producing better cattle breeds and hides thanks to better pastures and its position as a tropical plateau.
