16. January 2025

"Politico": German farmers fear 'massive' hit from foot-and-mouth outbreak

Germany's first foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak in nearly 40 years has sparked fears of significant economic and agricultural consequences. The outbreak, detected near Berlin, led to the slaughter of infected water buffaloes and neighboring pigs, with authorities implementing strict animal transport bans in Brandenburg. Major trading partners like the UK, South Korea, and Mexico have halted imports of German livestock, creating a backlog in shipments. Animal activists see a systemic failure. 

The German Farmers Association anticipates "massive" financial losses, with its secretary Bernhard Krüsken urging the government to ensure exports from FMD-free areas continue. Federal Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir is working to reassure trade partners, emphasizing that safe exports remain feasible.

Animal welfare advocates see the outbreak as part of a systemic issue. Iris Baumgärtner of the Animal Welfare Foundation criticized industrial farming and globalized animal trade, stating: "One disease chases the other... causing hysteria in governments and fear for national economies." She expressed concerns for the welfare of unweaned male calves, describing them as "degraded to a by-product of milk production" with no space or use on specialized dairy farms.

The government hopes to leverage the upcoming International Green Week in Berlin to rebuild confidence among trade partners, while EU rules allow restricted movement of animals from unaffected regions within the bloc.

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