A temporary ban has been implemented on all chilled, frozen and canned sheep or cow meat from India, Taiwan or Iran, after a decision by the Saudi Ministry of Commerce.

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The ban is a direct response to news that confirmed cases of foot and mouth disease had been found in the countries. The reports from local media on the issue were supported by information given by the World Health Organization (WHO).


The commerce ministry has released a statement on the import ban, revealing: “The decision aims at ensuring the public interest and preservation of the safety and health of the consumer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”

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