EU cattle breeders and genetic material importers find themselves at the center of a debate sparked by MEP Tomáš Zdechovský (EPP) over newly imposed restrictions requiring breeding bulls used for embryo production to be unvaccinated against infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR). This policy, introduced through Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/351, could complicate imports from key suppliers like the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK, stirring reactions among European breeders reliant on elite genetics for industry competitiveness.
Zdechovský's parliamentary question probes the scientific basis of these new rules, economic consequences for breeders and importers, and possibilities for regulatory flexibility. Addressed to the European Commission, the query reflects concerns about balancing animal health standards with maintaining vital genetic exchanges.
The Commission's response clarifies that the recent regulation refines existing animal health rules rather than introducing new ones. These rules, stemming from a 2018 expert group consensus and encapsulated in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/692, stipulate semen collection must occur only from IBR seronegative, unvaccinated bulls. This standard aligns with internal Union movements under Regulation (EU) 2016/429 to uphold stringent animal health safeguards.
No immediate plans to amend this policy were indicated by the Commission, citing lack of new evidence and the necessity of extensive stakeholder consultation and possible EFSA risk assessment for any changes. Meanwhile, the importation of oocytes remains unaffected, offering some genetic material access from third countries.
The policy highlights a cleavage between maintaining EU's rigorous veterinary safety regime versus potentially easing access to international genetic resources. Breeders benefit from high health standards but face restrictions limiting diversity and competitiveness. Genetic material exporters encounter tougher conditions, possibly impacting trade flows. National authorities retain stringent oversight, while the Commission emphasizes policy stability over swift regulatory relaxation.
An official Commission reply typically arrives within weeks of such questions and will signal any future policy shifts on this topic affecting EU cattle breeding and genetic exchange.