International trade: Exports of genetic material to European Union (EU) Member States
Exports of semen ova and embryos (genetic material) of horses, sheep and goats to EU Member States take place under harmonised rules and the trade requirements are laid down in the relevant EU Directives. These rules are implemented by Animals and Animal Products (Import and Export) (England) Regulations 2006 in England, and by their equivalent in Scotland and Wales.
Consignments must be accompanied by export health certification signed by an Official Veterinarian confirming that it meets the requirements for intra Community trade. One of those requirements is that the semen must be collected at a centre which is approved under regulation 9 of the Animals and Animal products (Import and Export)(England) Regulations 2006. The conditions for approval are set out in Annex D of EU Directive 92/65/EEC (PDF) (328 KB) To find out more information about the process for obtaining approval and the other conditions for trade, please contact your local Animal Health Divisional Office.
The latest development and issues which affect trade in genetic material exports are available in Customer Information Notes. For details of current procedures and documentation requirements, prospective exporters should contact their local Animal Health Divisional Office.
Page last modified:
6 August, 2007