Livestock producers face regulatory deadlines and slaughterhouse closures in Central America

In Costa Rica, the National Service for Animal Health (SENASA) has announced that the deadline for cattle identification registration will end on October 26. Authorities stated that no further extensions will be granted. Starting October 27, the system will only accept animals under six months of age, meaning unregistered adult livestock will be excluded from the official process.

Failure to register will result in significant operational restrictions, including the inability to obtain official mobilization guides, which are required for transporting animals on public roads. Additionally, unregistered cattle will be barred from livestock auctions and authorized slaughterhouses. Producers also face potential fines under the General Animal Health Law and the risk of animal seizures by law enforcement.

Meanwhile, in Panama, cattle and pig farmers in La Chorrera are facing challenges due to the temporary suspension of operations at the Unicarnes, S. A. slaughterhouse. The suspension follows a service interruption by the waste management company Veolia Panamá.

The National Association of Ranchers (ANAGAN) reported that producers are being forced to transport livestock to slaughterhouses in the Coclé province. This shift is expected to increase mobilization and slaughtering costs, which may ultimately be passed on to consumers.