Croatia Acts Fast: New Ban to Stop Livestock Diseases at the Border
To prevent the spread of serious livestock diseases, Croatia has introduced temporary import restrictions on animals and related products from Hungary and Slovakia.
To protect the health of livestock and safeguard the agricultural economy, Croatia has introduced new preventive measures against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and peste des petits ruminants (PPR). These diseases pose a serious threat due to their high contagiousness and potential to cause widespread economic damage.
New Order in Effect
On April 8, 2025, a new Official Order came into force, setting out specific measures aimed at preventing the entry and early detection of FMD and PPR within Croatian territory.
Temporary Import Ban
As part of these protective efforts, a temporary ban has been introduced on certain imports from Hungary and Slovakia. The ban applies to:
Cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs that have been present in Hungary or Slovakia since March 1, 2025
Germinal products (e.g., semen, embryos) from these animals produced after the same date
Animal products from affected livestock, including:
Fresh meat and edible slaughter by-products
Processed meat products and natural casings
Raw milk and colostrum
Non-edible animal by-products (e.g., hides, wool, bristles, whey, manure)
Hunting trophies from affected species
Plant-based feed and straw originating from Hungary and Slovakia
Vehicle Disinfection Requirement
Transport vehicles that have passed through Hungary or Slovakia are allowed to enter Croatia only if they undergo proper disinfection before entry. Drivers must carry an official certificate confirming the disinfection and present it to authorities upon request.
Why These Measures Matter
So far, 10 confirmed outbreaks have been reported in Hungary and Slovakia, affecting over 15,000 dairy cattle. In January 2025, a case was also detected in Germany.
Foot-and-mouth disease is one of the most serious and economically damaging animal diseases. Symptoms include fever, drooling, limping, and painful blisters on the mouth, udder, and hooves. In young animals, it can lead to death. The disease spreads quickly through infected animals, contaminated equipment, feed, and even via air.
If an outbreak occurs in Croatia, strict control measures would be enforced, including culling of all susceptible animals, movement restrictions, and severe trade limitations.
What Farmers and Transporters Must Do
Stay alert for any signs of FMD or PPR in animals
Report symptoms immediately to a licensed veterinarian
Strictly follow biosecurity procedures on farms and during transport
Final Reminder
This is a temporary measure, subject to changes depending on the disease situation in neighboring countries. Authorities urge everyone involved in animal husbandry and transport to remain vigilant and fully comply with all regulations to help keep Croatia disease-free.
For more details or updates, please refer to the official veterinary services or the Ministry of Agriculture.
Source: https://poljoprivreda.gov.hr/vijesti/objava-nove-naredbe-o-mjerama-sprjecavanja-pojave-i-ranog-otkrivanja-slinavke-i-sapa-te-kuge-malih-prezivaca-u-rh-i-privremena-zabrana-prometa-iz-madjarske-i-slovacke/7507