The Romanian government is taking crucial steps to address the concerns of local sheep breeders affected by the outbreaks of Pesta Micilor Rumegătoare (PMR). Following a recent meeting with shepherds who protested in Victoriei Square, officials announced plans to request an exemption from the European Commission, allowing for the transport of sheep and goats from farms that have not experienced disease outbreaks to nearby slaughterhouses.
During a meeting on March 24, 2025, at the Victoria Palace, a government team, including representatives from the Chancellery of the Prime Minister and the National Sanitary Veterinary Authority and Food Safety (ANSVSA), discussed the dire economic implications of PMR in counties like Arad and Bihor. This deadly disease has already prompted the suspension of live sheep exports to the European Union until June 6, 2025, creating a significant strain on local farmers.
Sheep breeders have urgently requested solutions to enable the sale of their animals in traditional markets, particularly with the Easter holiday approaching. In addition, they have voiced concerns about compensation for losses and proposed legislative changes that would facilitate pasture use under a dual system. This call for support includes blocking subsidies based on social conditionality and adjusting laws related to hunting, wool subsidies, and pasture fees.
Ioan Oleleu, the vice president of ANSVSA, reinforced that while live sheep exports are prohibited exclusively on the European market, Romania still exports a significant portion—85%—of live sheep and carcass meat to third countries outside the EU, which do not impose such import restrictions.
"Crescătorii de oi au cerut soluţii urgente pentru ca animalele să poată fi vândute de crescători pe pieţele tradiţionale, în preajma Paştelui," noted the government’s statement, underscoring the urgency and the wild demand from breeders for immediate and effective responses.
Moreover, alternative avenues for marketing lamb have been explored. Temporary slaughtering points will be established ahead of the Easter festivities, allowing farmers to sell directly from supervised sanitary units as well as specialized markets. The government plans to facilitate the ease of these processes to help minimize any potential economic fallout from the ongoing disease crisis.
As part of ongoing dialogue, the government remains committed to collaborating with association leaders from across the sheep farming sector to ensure long-term solutions are identified. These discussions are set against the backdrop of a broader governmental strategy aimed at fortifying Romania's agricultural landscape.
Local authorities have also indicated they are in the process of developing specific plans regarding the applications for the establishment of temporary slaughter points, which could significantly alleviate the burdens faced by sheep farmers. Each temporary location will comply with relaxed conditions outlined by EU regulations, focusing on ensuring animal health and safety while facilitating commerce.
As the situation unfolds, it is clear that not only is the well-being of Romania's sheep farmers at stake but also the cultural and economic fabric intertwined with sheep husbandry. The ongoing export agreements, especially with Arab countries where no sales restrictions apply, represent a significant market opportunity for Romanian sheep, accounting for an impressive portion of the country’s agricultural exports.
In summary, as the Romanian government prepares to address the issues surrounding the sheep farming industry, the focus on balancing public health with economic viability will be paramount. With a vulnerable sector at the heart of these discussions, there lies a pressing need for both immediate responses and strategic planning moving forward. This will, in essence, not only protect the livelihoods of farmers but also sustain the agricultural heritage that forms an essential part of Romania’s identity.
