Written Statement: The Animal Health (Import Controls) (Wales) Order 2025

Members of the Senedd will wish to be aware that I have laid the Animal Health (Import Controls) (Wales) Order 2025, which restricts the personal import of certain commodities from European Economic Area (EEA) states plus the Faroe Islands, Switzerland and Greenland. 

This has replaced the existing, short-term safeguarding measures in place to restrict the import of ruminant and pig meat, and dairy products, from EEA states plus the Faroe Islands, Switzerland and Greenland to Wales for personal consumption and use (external link). 

Compared to commercial imports, there are varying uncertainties in certification, traceability and biosecurity of personal imports.  Personal imports pose a particular challenge for traceability as the origin of products of animal origin (POAO) cannot be ascertained as they do not require health certificates. This then poses a significant risk that an animal health disease could be introduced into GB. 

This new Order will provide for long-term, resilient protection against the risk of disease incursion via the personal import of POAO to GB. 

Welsh Government remain committed to maintaining our biosecurity and borders in the face of these mounting disease risks and will continue to do ensure protection of our farmers and economy. 

This statement is being issued during recess to keep Members informed. Should Members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.