New Certification Requirements for Italian Pork Imports to Canada

These updated import measures are part of Canada’s proactive approach to preventing the introduction and spread of African Swine Flu in the country.

Starting December 16, 2024, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) will implement updated requirements for uncooked processed Italian pork imports.

Under the revised regulations, a new Official Meat Inspection Certificate (OMIC) will be required for all pork imports from Italy.

Pork shipments will be accepted under either the old or new certification conditions during an 8-week transition period from December 16, 2024, to February 15, 2025. After the transition period ends, only the new requirements will be accepted.

The new requirements aim to protect Canada’s swine industry from the risks of African swine fever (ASF).

ASF is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs and wild boars. It is not a threat to human health. However, its spread could significantly impact animal health and the global pork trade.

Key requirements before and after the transition period

1. Shipments certified before December 16, 2024:

• Must include an animal health import permit, the current OMIC, and a zoosanitary certificate or annex.
• Certifications must state that products:
  • Are not derived from animals originating in ASF-infected or restricted zones.
  • Were processed in establishments that do not handle animals from restricted zones.
  • Were processed in establishments outside ASF-restricted zones as listed in EU regulations.

2. Shipments certified between December 16, 2024, and February 15, 2025:

• Both old and new certification standards will be accepted.
• Italian pork importers will receive amended import permits during this time.

3. Shipments certified after February 15, 2025:

• Must include the new OMIC and an animal health import permit.
• The zoosanitary certificate or annex will no longer be required.

Italian pork importers are encouraged to prepare for the new documentation standards to avoid disruptions in their supply chains. If you have any questions, please send an email to APABPImport@inspection.gc.ca.

Canada hosts the 2024 North American ASF Forum

Earlier this year, Canada hosted the fourth North American African Swine Fever (NA-ASF) Forum, which was held in Ottawa between September 17 and 19.

The event brought together experts, industry leaders, and government representatives from Canada, the United States, and Mexico to address the ongoing threat of ASF to North America.

During the forum, Canada’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Mary Jane Ireland, stated, “We must stay vigilant, proactive, and united in our fight against ASF.”

“I am confident that our continued collaboration will help protect our pigs and the pork industry from the impacts of a potential ASF threat,” Ireland continued.

Although Canada exports pork, primarily to China, the U.S., and Japan, it also imports a considerable amount of pork products from Europe. In 2022, the country imported approximately 234,000 metric tons of pork.

For more information about the new requirements and how to ensure compliance, please reach out to one of our trade professionals.