U.S. Bioterrorism Act

[kato]

We got an email from the CFIA today giving us a heads up on the new bioterrorism act that comes into effect in the U.S. on Dec. 12.

They are not sure how much this will impact our exporters of livestock, but they do know it will have an impact.

The CFIA recommends that any farmer who exports anything to the States check out the Act at www.fda.gov/oc/bioterrorism/bioact.html

There is more information from the government of Canada at http://ats/agr.ca - go to FDA "New Regulations and Bioterrorism Act" icon.

This involves being registered with the FDA, and giving notice before exporting any kind of food (including livestock and any grains for human consumption) across the border. The registration form is at www.access.fda.gov.

This is perfectly reasonable, and blood testing for bluetongue is not? Go figure.

[pandiana]

Another protectionist policy. Why wouldn't a bioterrorist not just drop something into an American Vat? Stopping some products at the border will possibly catch something but what about the made at home bioterrorism?

[cowman]

The Americans are pretty freaked out right now after 9-11. And I guess who can blame them? A whole lot of people hate their guts! Perhaps with good reason?
If Canada had a compatible security system in place we probably could have been exempt from this bioterrorism bill. I doubt this bill is really about protecting their markets. More about fear?
Now COOL(country of origin) is another story! That bill is all about protectionalism! I suspect that one will eventually backfire on them but it could wreak havoc in our markets for the short term.
But what are you going to do? When you are in bed with the elephant you risk being crushed! And don't forget the American golden rule...He who has the gold, makes the rules!