The Food Safety and Security Authority, within the Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, is issuing a set of emergency measures with immediate effect in response to the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) serotype SAT 1 in Europe.
Following recent outbreaks reported in Cyprus and Greece, and in line with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) statement issued on 15 April 2026 calling for enhanced vigilance, Malta is adopting precautionary measures to protect animal health, safeguard the agricultural sector, and ensure food security.
These measures are being implemented in accordance with the Veterinary Services Act (Chapter 437), Article 15 (2) and (5).
Key Emergency Measures
With effect from 21 April 2026, the following measures shall apply:
- Mandatory Quarantine:
All entries into Malta of ruminants and swine from European Union Member States shall be subject to a mandatory quarantine period of fourteen (14) days, at the expense of the owner, prior to release.
- Import Ban from Non-EU Countries:
The importation of ruminants and swine from countries outside the European Union is strictly prohibited.
- Restrictions on Persons from Risk Zones:
Any individual who has passed through a protection or surveillance zone shall not, for a period of fourteen (14) days from arrival in Malta, enter or visit any location where ruminants or swine are kept.
- Vehicle Restrictions:
Vehicles transporting animals shall not be permitted entry into Malta if they have transited through protection or surveillance zones while these measures are in force.
- Movement Control Within Malta:
The movement of ruminants and swine within Malta is prohibited unless expressly authorised by the Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) within the Food Safety and Security Authority. - Enhanced Biosecurity Measures:
All farms holding ruminants and/or swine are required to strictly follow biosecurity instructions issued by the CVO, whether published or communicated directly.
- Restrictions on Animal Products:
Products or objects derived from ruminants and/or swine originating from protection or surveillance zones are prohibited from entering Malta for both commercial and personal use.
- Measures for Non-Susceptible Species:
Animal species not susceptible to FMD but originating from protection or surveillance zones shall be subject to specific precautionary measures, including hoof cleaning and safe disposal (incineration) of excrement.
- Closure of Petting Farms:
Petting farms hosting ruminants and swine shall remain closed to the public while these measures are in force.
- Waste Disposal Controls:
Food waste or waste derived from cooking or food processing from maritime and aerial transport (including boats, vessels, and aircraft) must either be incinerated in approved facilities or not disposed of within Malta.
These precautionary measures are intended to prevent the introduction and spread of Foot and Mouth Disease in Malta and to protect livestock, farmers, and the wider economy. The Authority urges all stakeholders and the general public to fully comply with these regulations. Further updates will be provided as necessary.
For further information, the public may contact the Food Safety and Security Authority on the 24/7 on-call telephone number on +356 99170532 or send an email to [email protected].
