The Ministry of Agriculture is reiterating its position regarding the entrance of animal and animal products and plant and plant products in the light of reports of queries about importation from Brazil to Guyana via Lethem, that all agricultural products are subjected to certain rules and requirements under the Sanitary and Phytosanitary measures (SPS).

The Ministry stated that agricultural products have been entering without abiding with the SPS requirements and this is  a worrying practice.
SPS measures are implemented by countries to protect human, animal and plant health and to prevent the entrance of diseases into the country that can seriously hamper the agriculture sector, the Ministry stated.

After many years, Guyana has been declared free of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) without vaccination and the border state of Brazil is not FMD free, therefore Guyanese must be vigilant to ensure that this does not comprise Guyana’s status for this could terribly setback the livestock industry.  
The Ministry stated that it must be understood that even though there are existing trade Agreements where some goods are allowed in duty free, the SPS requirements are a must and the Ministry of Agriculture will not allow this principle to be violated.

The illegal and unregulated importation of products, which can bring danger to the health of humans, animals and plants, can also affect the growth of farming communities especially in Amerindian communities in Region Nine that are trying to move out of subsistence farming to commercial agriculture as the market could be overwhelmed by these illegal products causing the local producers to suffer.

It is important to note that when producers in Guyana including those from Region Nine seek to enter the Brazilian market they are subjected to the same SPS conditions. In fact, many have complained about the difficulties in accessing the Brazilian markets due to the statutory SPS.

This situation is not restricted only to the Border at Lethem but at all points of entry into Guyana such as Moleson Creek and all airports.

The Agriculture Ministry said it is also in the interest of the population to be vigilant and to support these measures because it is for the benefit of the entire population that the Government takes these measures and not to penalize anyone or any entity.  (GINA)