Implementation and maintenance of animal traceability in the Americas: overview of current status and impact for international trade

Abstract

The level of interest and readiness in the development of a traceability system for bovine, caprine, equine, ovine and porcine animals and poultry and the impact the system may have on international trade have been reviewed through a questionnaire sent to OIE Member Countries in the Americas. The responses to the questionnaire show a higher level of interest and readiness in the development or enhancement of a bovine traceability system. Eleven countries indicated that their level of interest in the development of a bovine traceability system is greater than their readiness. The level of interest in the development of a traceability system for other farmed animal species is lower, especially for ovine and caprine animals. The lack of financial support and the lack of interest from industry have been identified as the two main impediments in the development of a traceability system. While an efficient traceability system would mitigate the impacts of a trade embargo in the event of a disease outbreak or food safety issue, it would not necessarily ensure access to foreign markets, which may include requirements other than traceability as an import condition.