Importers take note - NPA updates Imports Protocol

The NPA has published a revised Imports Protocol, bringing it up-to-date with new disease threats and making it easier to follow.

If you import stock, you can view the revised document, which is published in our briefings section, here.

The NPA Imports Protocol was first developed by the NPA Heads of Breeding Companies committee several years ago.

With the help of the breeding companies, NPA senior policy advisor Georgina Crayford has updated it to include new disease threats that could be brought in via imported stock, including Senecavirus A.

It has also been made it easier to follow with a summary of key actions for importers on the first page.

Georgina said: "All of the primary breeding companies operating in the UK will be going over and above the Import Protocol, but we also need any producers who might be importing stock themselves to take a look and ensure they are compliant.

"The protocol is a recommendation, so minor changes to the testing protocol may be required depending on where the pigs are coming from. It is up to the vet and importing business to ensure that they follow the protocol in such a way as to minimise the risk of bringing anything in.

"It is also worth stressing that NPA Import Protocol is a Red Tractor requirement. If proposed changes to the standard go through, vets will be required to sign an import certificate declaring which diseases have been tested for, to demonstrate to auditors that an import protocol has been followed.

"If this standard goes through NPA will provide a template certificate that can be used to meet this requirement."