Starting October 25, Azerbaijan will introduce temporary restrictions on livestock market operations as part of nationwide animal health and disease prevention measures, the Azerbaijan Food Safety Agency (AFSA) told Report.az.
According to AFSA, border regions, animal migration routes, and livestock markets have been designated as high-risk zones.
The joint keeping, sale, and transport of animals from different origins can facilitate the spread of infectious diseases and increase the risk of outbreaks across the country.
Under an order signed by the Chief State Veterinary Inspector, all active livestock markets in Azerbaijan will undergo a phased sanitation campaign, including temporary closures for disinfection, pest control, and rodent elimination.
These measures will be enforced by AFSA’s regional divisions in cooperation with local executive authorities and the police.
Market operations will resume following the completion of sanitation procedures.
In a related decision, AFSA also announced that from October 25, Azerbaijan will suspend imports and transit of cattle and small ruminants from Georgia, except for animals imported directly for slaughter. The step aims to prevent the potential spread of infectious livestock diseases.
All imported animals will be placed in quarantine, where they will undergo clinical examinations and laboratory testing before being cleared for entry.
