Import Risk Analsis OF Hatching Eggs

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the probable risks associated with importation of hatching eggs and day old chicks, which come via Khartoum airport, and to evaluate the quality level ofthe Sudanese standards ofthese two commodities as well as the sanitary measures in place based on the international standards. Data were collected from the Federal Ministry of Animal Resources and Fisheries FMARF, the Sudanese Standards and Metrology Organization SSMO, and from the official website of the World Animal Health Organization OIE. For that purpose risk analysis was used following the guidelines as described in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code 2009. Import risk analysis is the term used to cover the identification, assessment and management ofrisk associated with the importation of animals and animal-derived products. The results showed that a total of 11241209 chicks, and 62307030 layers and broilers hatching eggs were imported into Sudan in the period between 2005 and 2009, from 14 countries, which may comprise potential risk of introducing Avian Influenza, and many other diseases into the country, this was extrapolated from the poultry health status in the exporting countries; the Avian Influenza is endemic in Egypt, which represented the main exporting country ofthe two commodities in 2005. In 2006 about 18.3% (out of 235,626 susceptible population) were infected with Avian Influenza and 43.2% (n= 101,814) were destroyed due to the same reason in Sudan. The Sudanese standards of hatching eggs and day old chicks have not been set according to the OIE international standards. Moreover the sanitary measures in place were less stringent to achieve the appropriate level of protection. Therefore, a multidisciplinary scientific risk analysis approaches following OIE standards are recommended for the importation procedures and setting of the Sudanese standards.