Ham-Fisted Bans No Way to Respond to Flu: Day

(Kathleen Harris — Ottawa Sun)

International Trade Minister Stockwell Day is urging countries around the world to act on “sound science,” not fear, as a growing list of worried nations seal their borders to Canadian hogs and pork products.

China joined at least nine other countries yesterday that have barred or restricted imports of Canadian pigs and meat, a day after federal officials confirmed that swine flu had passed from an Alberta farmhand to a herd of hogs.

Pork producers are worried negative perceptions and trade bans could cripple an already struggling industry.

Day said he is pleased U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack confirmed the Alberta incident will not change American trade policies on Canadian pork, and stressed there is “no justification” for bans since the virus is not food-borne.

“Some countries have imposed a ban on North American pork and swine products without scientifically justifiable evidence to support their actions,” he said. “We urge these countries to base their decisions on sound science.”

Canadian missions abroad are working with trade partners and importers to highlight the safety of Canadian pork and swine products. In countries where an import ban has been imposed or is under consideration, officials are speaking to key agencies and officials to help them make an “informed decision.”

Jurgen Preugschas, chair of the Canadian Pork Council, said import restrictions vary by country, with some limiting just meat and others barring both live swine and pork. China's ban applies to Alberta specifically. Read more here.

Related: Pork industry in panic as pigs catch the flu (Globe & Mail).