Venezuela launches nationwide livestock census to gain foot-and-mouth disease free status

Venezuela has initiated a comprehensive livestock census aiming to secure international recognition as free from foot-and-mouth disease, potentially opening new export markets and revitalising its agriculture sector.

Venezuela has stepped up its campaign to win international recognition as free of foot-and-mouth disease, with agriculture minister Vladimir Padrino López telling regional leaders that a nationwide livestock census will begin on 24 August, according to Últimas Noticias.

At a videoconference with governors and other authorities, he said the plan would be carried out territory by territory, from state level down to individual farms, with support from local councils, agricultural units, the national animal health agency, the armed forces, universities, communes, producers and industry groups. The exercise will include registration, georeferencing and digital mapping of cattle herds.

Padrino López said the government sees the initiative as part of a broader revival in agriculture and insists that certification will require co-ordinated political and administrative effort across the country.

The push follows instructions from President Nicolás Maduro in August 2023 to take the steps needed for Venezuela to be recognised internationally as free of the disease, a status that would help open access to meat markets abroad, including in Arab countries and neighbouring Colombia and Brazil.

The World Organisation for Animal Health, which has handled official disease-status recognition for trade purposes since 1998, allows member states to seek formal acknowledgement of freedom from foot-and-mouth disease.