Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture: Involving the Private Sector in Veterinary Quarantine Efforts to Enhance Livestock and Increase Self-Sufficiency Rates
His Excellency Eng. Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, affirmed the Ministry's commitment to continuing its efforts in developing the livestock sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain, thereby contributing to strengthening food security. He highlighted the vital role of the private sector and its significant contributions, which have positively impacted the achievement of the desired objectives.
HE the Minister emphasized that Decision No. (140) of 2024, which regulates private veterinary quarantine licenses, contributes to enhancing the effectiveness of the biosecurity system to prevent transboundary diseases and their causes. It also involves the private sector in establishing and managing veterinary quarantine facilities. Additionally, it reflects the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture's commitment to achieving a balance between facilitating and expediting the flow of livestock shipments while protecting livestock resources.
HE the Minister stated that this decision was issued to prevent the entry of contagious, epidemic, and transboundary diseases, as well as to control zoonotic diseases in order to safeguard public health. It also aims to enhance livestock productivity and ensure the safety of animal-derived food products. The decision is regarded as a strategic move to boost livestock trade and combat transboundary diseases.
The decision establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the operation of private veterinary quarantine facilities, ensuring their compliance with veterinary regulations and procedures as outlined in the Veterinary Quarantine Law issued by Decree No. (8) of 2003 and its executive regulations issued by Decision No. (7) of 2004.
He continued, "These measures are expected to contribute to supporting the veterinary trade sector, creating new job opportunities, and improving the quality of services provided to breeders and investors in this field."
The Minister emphasized the importance of this decision in supporting the nation's livestock sector and enhancing its quality by ensuring that facilities adopt the best modern scientific methods in veterinary quarantine management. He also highlighted the role of involving the private sector in establishing and managing veterinary quarantine facilities. HE noted that the partnership with the private sector in managing these facilities has played a key role in strengthening the livestock sector, increasing self-sufficiency rates, and ensuring the availability of necessary products in the market. Additionally, it has supported the enhancement of import and export operations, contributing to the continued growth of the economic and commercial movement.
