South Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) has introduced new import health requirements (IHRs) for pet food, effective January 14, 2024, according to the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). These regulations now allow US pet food containing ruminant ingredients, which had been banned since 2003 due to concerns over bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). The updated IHRs outline strict conditions for ruminant-derived ingredients, manufacturing processes, and facility inspections, ensuring compliance with Korea’s animal disease prevention laws. Additionally, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) will collaborate with Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA) to approve US pet food facilities. Existing pet food imports can continue under previous health certificates until December 31, 2025, while new products must adhere to the revised standards.
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