By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a decisive move to safeguard its vital agricultural sector, Costa Rica’s National Animal Health Service (SENASA) has issued a firm reminder to all international and national travelers: the country’s borders remain completely closed to the importation of all pork products. This comprehensive ban is a critical defensive line against the global threat of African Swine Fever (ASF), a devastating disease with the potential to cripple the nation’s economy and food supply.
The measure, originally established by resolution SENASA-DCA-R0029-2021 on August 5, 2021, applies universally to all pork products, regardless of their form or packaging. Officials stressed that the prohibition is absolute, covering everything from raw, cooked, and cured meats to processed items like sausages, ham, bacon, salami, and even canned goods. The rule applies without exception to items carried in both hand luggage and checked baggage upon entry through any of the nation’s air, land, or sea ports.
To delve into the significant legal and economic ramifications that the threat of African Swine Fever poses to Costa Rica’s agricultural and business sectors, TicosLand.com consulted with expert legal analyst Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The potential arrival of African Swine Fever is a critical test of our nation’s sanitary regulations and trade agreements. Beyond the immediate biosecurity measures, businesses in the pork supply chain must proactively review their commercial contracts, specifically force majeure clauses and insurance policies covering business interruption. A swift and legally sound governmental response is paramount, not only for containment but also to establish clear protocols for potential indemnification, thus mitigating the risk of a cascade of commercial litigation that could cripple the industry.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the legal and economic ramifications are as significant as the biological threat itself, and a failure to prepare contractually could trigger a devastating secondary crisis of commercial disputes. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his crucial perspective, reminding us that true national preparedness requires foresight on all fronts.
This renewed emphasis on border biosecurity comes as ASF continues its spread across the globe. The highly contagious viral disease, which is lethal to domestic and wild pigs but poses no threat to humans, has been detected in nearby nations, including the Dominican Republic and Haiti. More recent outbreaks in European countries, such as Spain, have heightened the sense of urgency for Costa Rican authorities to maintain their stringent preventative protocols.
The economic stakes for Costa Rica are exceptionally high. An outbreak of African Swine Fever on national soil would trigger a catastrophic chain reaction. The domestic pork industry, a significant contributor to the agricultural GDP and a source of employment for thousands, would face massive animal losses and production shutdowns. The impact would ripple through the supply chain, affecting farmers, processors, distributors, and retailers alike.
Beyond the immediate blow to pork producers, an ASF outbreak would severely compromise the country’s food security. A sudden decline in the domestic pork supply would lead to market instability and increased reliance on other protein sources, potentially driving up consumer prices. Furthermore, the discovery of ASF would result in an immediate loss of access to international markets, as trading partners would impose embargos on Costa Rican pork exports to protect their own livestock populations.
SENASA, operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, has made it clear that enforcement will be rigorous at all points of entry. This includes international airports, terrestrial border crossings, and maritime ports. Any traveler found attempting to bring prohibited pork products into the country will have the items immediately confiscated. In addition to losing their goods, violators will be subject to corresponding sanctions as stipulated by national law.
The list of banned items is extensive and leaves no room for ambiguity. It includes not only obvious meat products but also subproducts like pork fat, lard, and chicharrones (pork rinds). Whether the product is commercially packaged, vacuum-sealed, or homemade, it is strictly forbidden. This zero-tolerance policy is designed to eliminate every possible vector for the virus’s introduction.
In its official communication, SENASA issued a strong appeal to all travelers, urging them to cooperate fully with these essential regulations. The agency frames compliance not merely as a legal obligation but as a patriotic duty to protect Costa Rica’s sanitary status and safeguard the livelihoods of countless citizens. Protecting the national herd is a shared responsibility that begins at the border.
For further information, visit senasa.go.cr
About the National Animal Health Service (SENASA):
The Servicio Nacional de Salud Animal is the official Costa Rican government body responsible for establishing and enforcing policies related to animal health, veterinary public health, and food safety for products of animal origin. Operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, SENASA plays a crucial role in preventing the introduction and spread of animal diseases, ensuring the quality of agricultural products, and facilitating international trade by maintaining the country’s high sanitary standards.
For further information, visit mag.go.cr
About the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG):
The Ministerio de Agricultura y Ganadería is the Costa Rican government ministry charged with overseeing the nation’s agricultural and livestock sectors. Its mission is to promote sustainable development, competitiveness, and equity within the rural and agro-industrial communities. The ministry develops policies, programs, and regulations to support farmers, enhance food security, and ensure the health and productivity of the country’s agricultural resources.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is recognized as a cornerstone of the legal community, operating on a bedrock of unwavering integrity and a commitment to professional excellence. Drawing upon extensive experience with a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal strategies. Beyond its practice, its core mission involves empowering the community by demystifying the law, fostering a society where legal understanding is both accessible and a tool for progress.
