The United Kingdom has banned meat and dairy imports from Hungary and Slovakia as of March 10, 2025, following a confirmed case of foot-and-mouth disease along their border. The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), responsible for food safety and environmental policies, announced the decision to prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus. The ban covers livestock, meat, dairy, and animal by-products, restricting both commercial imports and personal travel allowances.
The United Kingdom has enforced a ban on meat and dairy imports from Hungary and Slovakia following a confirmed case of foot-and-mouth disease along the border between the two countries. The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), responsible for regulating food safety and agriculture, announced the measure late Friday to prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus.
The ban includes livestock such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats, along with their untreated products, including fresh meat and dairy. Additionally, as of Sunday, travelers entering the UK from Hungary and Slovakia will not be allowed to bring meat, dairy, or animal by-products into the country.
Foot-and-mouth disease, known for its rapid transmission among cloven-hoofed animals, poses a severe threat to livestock industries. This latest outbreak follows a similar case in Germany less than two months ago, raising concerns about the virus spreading further across Europe.
DEFRA stated that these restrictions are necessary to safeguard the UK’s agricultural sector and prevent potential economic losses. The department is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with international health agencies to contain the outbreak.
The ban is expected to impact trade relations with Hungary and Slovakia, both of which are key exporters of meat and dairy to the UK. Officials have advised businesses to seek alternative suppliers while the restrictions remain in place.
