Libya delegation visits Romania to evaluate sheep export resumption

A Libyan delegation is visiting Romania to evaluate sanitary and technical conditions required to resume sheep exports. The visit, scheduled for early October, involves inspections of animal farms, collection centers, slaughterhouses, and the Institute of Diagnostic and Animal Health.

These evaluations focus on biosecurity measures, animal traceability, and the effectiveness of diagnostic and monitoring capacities. The resumption of trade depends on the Libyan authorities accepting veterinary guarantees based on Romania’s implementation of an Action Plan designed to manage epidemiological risks, such as small ruminant plague and pox outbreaks.

Historically, livestock exports to Libya were suspended for 12 years due to political instability. Once trade resumed, Romania generated $14.3 million from sheep sales in a single year. Beyond Libya, Romania is also negotiating the resumption of exports to several other Middle Eastern and North African countries, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Morocco, Kuwait, Tunisia, and Israel.