UAE's Ministry Of Climate Change And Environment Hosts First Agricultural And Veterinary Quarantine Forum

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) recently hosted the inaugural Agricultural and Veterinary Quarantine Forum. The event focused on examining scientific insights into cross-border animal diseases and agricultural pests, while also exploring strategies to prevent their entry into the UAE. It aimed to enhance collaboration among federal, local authorities, and the private sector in tackling these challenges.

Marwan Abdullah Al Zaabi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Regions Sector at MOCCAE, highlighted the UAE's initiatives to boost strategic crop production, expand livestock resources, and regulate imports. These efforts align with the National Food Security Strategy 2051, which aims to position the UAE as a leader in global food security by 2051. Al Zaabi stated, "Through this forum, we aim to foster greater cooperation with all relevant stakeholders, and leverage the resources and capabilities of various entities, including testing labs and animal quarantine facilities. In addition to this, we aim to ensure the smooth flow of goods and strengthen international trade."

The forum underscored MOCCAE's dedication to adopting global best practices in agricultural and veterinary quarantine procedures. This commitment ensures a seamless flow of goods without compromising biosecurity standards. Attendees included representatives from UAE authorities and international organisations focused on advancing quarantine measures and developing innovative solutions for animal diseases and agricultural pests.

Al Zaabi further emphasised updating legislation to align with international standards. He noted that incorporating advanced equipment and testing methods is crucial for ensuring efficient, speedy, and accurate test results. He added that supporting UAE nationals in agricultural and veterinary quarantine roles is vital for enhancing their capabilities.

Dr. Donna Bennett from the Australian Consulate in Dubai presented Australia's best practices in biosecurity maintenance. Her presentation highlighted quarantine procedures based on integrated risk analysis and programmes monitoring agricultural pests and animal diseases. Prof. Gobena Ameni Chimdi from UAE University discussed transboundary animal diseases' epidemiology and prevention strategies.

Prof. Dr. Abdullah Mohammad Alsadi from the University of Al Dhaid addressed challenges facing GCC agricultural quarantine systems. He stressed updating decisions governing quarantine procedures as essential for achieving optimal biosecurity standards.

Collaboration Among Key Stakeholders

The forum featured participation from various international entities like the International Fund for Animal Welfare's Regional Office and Dubai Police's General Department of Anti-Narcotics. The private sector also played a significant role in advancing quarantine operations and standards.

A session during the forum focused on collaboration between federal, local authorities, and the private sector to enhance quarantine procedures while maintaining biosecurity standards. This session is part of broader efforts supporting food safety systems.

Technological Advancements in Quarantine Procedures

The discussions reviewed technical capabilities of local authorities in Abu Dhabi and Dubai crucial for implementing quarantine procedures compliant with biosecurity standards. Advanced technologies used in monitoring operations were highlighted as contributing factors to achieving 100 percent accuracy in results.

The forum concluded with an emphasis on leveraging technological advancements to enhance consumer confidence in imported products by ensuring adherence to stringent biosecurity measures.

With inputs from WAM