ISLAMABAD:  The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries has lifted ban from import of animal casing from Pakistan to Japan with effect from May 21st 2020. The authorization has been issued by Japan’s Chief Veterinary Officer Mr. Kiyoyasu Ishi Kawa, says a press release .

Pakistan had been exporting animal casings to Japan since 1985 but the Animal Health Division at the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries (MAFF) restricted import of animal casing from Pakistan to Japan in 2017 due to enhanced Animal Health Requirements (AHRs) related to disinfecting measures. 

According to Tahir Habib Cheema, Trade & Investment Officer at the Embassy of Pakistan in Tokyo, the Japanese Animal Health Division was re-engaged in January this year to resolve the matter by involving stakeholders from both sides. Satisfying all queries of Japanese authorities, the negotiations were successfully concluded in March, 2020 followed by a thorough exercise on drafting certificate templates.

At a time when global trade is facing a lot of challenges and countries like Pakistan are projecting dip in exports, such a good piece of news stimulating positive energy can be of great help in sustaining trade and economy, keeping the hope alive.