KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia: In a significant development for the livestock trade between Malaysia and Australia, the Malaysian government has officially lifted the temporary ban on live cattle and buffalo imports from Australia.
The ban was put in place as a precautionary measure against lumpy skin disease (LSD), a potentially fatal infectious disease for livestock.
The decision to resume imports came after Malaysian authorities received a comprehensive investigation report from their Australian counterparts and engaged in discussions to ensure the safety of the imported animals. The Department of Veterinary Services in Malaysia confirmed the reversal of the ban on Wednesday, marking a positive step forward for both nations’ agricultural industries.
The ban on Australian livestock imports was initially imposed last month when a small number of Australian cattle that had been shipped to neighbouring Indonesia were discovered to have contracted lumpy skin disease (LSD). Indonesian authorities promptly reported positive LSD cases in 13 cattle originating from Australia over several months, beginning in May. Subsequently, Indonesia suspended imports from four facilities as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the disease.
Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry warmly welcomed Malaysia’s decision to lift the ban. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the department praised the collaborative efforts of technical and trade officials, affirming that Australia remains LSD-free and that there is no cause for concern among Australian cattle producers. It emphasized that Australia continues to actively trade livestock products on the international market, including live cattle exports to Indonesia.
Lumpy skin disease, which is transmitted through insect bites, does not pose any risk to human health. However, it can have severe consequences for cattle, including reduced milk production, sterility, and even death, making it crucial to contain and manage outbreaks swiftly.
The resumption of live cattle and buffalo imports from Australia is a relief for both Malaysian consumers and the Australian agricultural sector. Malaysia imports cattle and buffalo from Australia valued at approximately $5.5 million annually, making it a significant trade partnership for both nations. With the ban now lifted, the livestock trade can regain its momentum, providing economic benefits and ensuring a stable supply of high-quality meat products to meet the demands of consumers in Malaysia.
