Rosselkhoznadzor begins inspections of Brazilian poultry meat producers

MOSCOW. Nov 28 (Interfax) - Rosselkhoznadzor specialists began inspecting Brazilian meat processing enterprises interested in supplying the Russian market.

"During the inspections, an assessment will be made of the system for ensuring the veterinary safety of livestock production, in particular beef and poultry meat. In addition, Rosselkhoznadzor specialists will visit farms where cattle and poultry are raised, as well as the state veterinary laboratory," a statement from the service said.

The inspection program also includes familiarization with the work of veterinary service information systems and study of the issue of moving raw materials, finished products, and by-products throughout the country and beyond its borders.

As Rosselkhoznadzor reported in early November, an agreement to conduct an inspection was reached at a meeting between the head of the service, Sergei Dankvert, and Brazil's Ambassador to Russia, Rodrigo Baena Soares. The inspection program was to include 11 enterprises.

As reported, the Russian Agriculture Ministry proposed introducing a quota for duty-free import of up to 160,000 tonnes of certain types of chicken for 2024. This proposal was supported by the customs subcommission. In addition, the quota for duty-free import of beef into Russia in 2024 has been maintained at 100,000 tonnes. This meat should be used for industrial processing only.

Brazil is one of the leading producers and exporters of poultry and beef in the world.