Chief Executive the Brazilian Association of Animal Protein (ABPA), Francisco Turra, and Vice President of its pig group, Rui Eduardo Vargas Saldanha, have asked the Minister of Agriculture for action on measures to prevent PED.

They requested urgent action by Minister Neri Geller and his ministry on imports of pig products from the United States.

According to information received by ABPA, the occurrence of PED has intensified in the US and the association is demanding action to minimise the risks to the Brazilian pork industry.

Mr Vargas said that the maintenance of health status is a priority for the Brazilian pig sector and the whole supply chain needs to be mobilised to prevent the disease entering its territory.

In a telephone conversation with the Minister, Mr Turra received assurances on enhanced surveillance of agricultural federal tax to shield the Brazilian sector.

Mr Turra added that the Minister supports the pig sector and pledged to attend to the matter, emphasising its importance for further expansion of Brazilian pig meat exports.