Breakthrough as Russia prepares to lift ban on imports of Irish pigmeat

RUSSIA is ready to resume imports of Irish pigmeat, banned since the dioxin incident in December, 2008.

Pork produced after February 1 can go to Russia, an export market worth more than €12 million to Ireland in 2007, according to Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith.

The breakthrough comes as a major epidemic of African Swine Fever threatens Russia. According to media reports, regional authorities have destroyed more than 22,000 pigs, mainly in southern Russia. Analysts believe if the infection moves into the Central and Volga federal districts it may destroy up to 41.4% of the Russian pig population.