Galicia's Initiative for Cattle Export Restoration
During a recent visit to the Central Agricultural Market in Silleda, María José Gómez, the regional Minister of Rural Affairs in Galicia, announced that the Xunta will formally request the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food to initiate discussions with Morocco to resume Spanish cattle exports. This demand arises from the significant economic impact that Morocco holds as one of the primary markets for Galician livestock. Despite the continuous closure of the Moroccan border due to concerns over contagious nodular dermatitis, Gómez highlighted that no new cases have been reported since March in either Catalonia or Aragon, advocating for an immediate 'flexibility' in regulations to allow the resumption of cattle sales as soon as possible.
Impact on the Livestock Sector and Future Agricultural Policies
Gómez emphasized the critical need for reopening this market to sustain livestock prices and profitability for Galician farms. She drew parallels with the Ministry's previous efforts to engage with China amidst the African swine fever crisis, urging for a similar proactive approach with Morocco to facilitate the commercial movement of livestock to North Africa. Furthermore, the Minister plans to address additional concerns related to contagious nodular dermatitis, including the necessity for improved coordination with autonomous communities, the incorporation of the disease into agricultural insurance policies, and the advocacy for a marked vaccine before the European Union. These measures, particularly the potential reclassification of the disease, aim to prevent mandatory culling in the event of an outbreak.
The current climate of uncertainty surrounding the livestock sector prompts the Xunta to demand ongoing dialogue regarding the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) post-2028. Gómez advocates for a comprehensive agricultural policy that is vital for Galicia, one that is sufficiently funded and allows for real negotiation power among autonomous communities. Additionally, she has called for protective measures for dairy producers, both as part of the Dairy Package and through amendments to the Food Chain Law, in response to falling prices in current contracts. It is worth noting that the Xunta had previously requested a face-to-face meeting with Minister Luis Planas three months ago to discuss these pressing issues, but has yet to receive a response.
As reported by farodevigo.es.
