Algeria suspends live cattle imports over veterinary risks

Algeria has temporarily suspended imports of live cattle amid concerns over the possible spread of a new serotype of the foot-and-mouth disease virus. The decision applies to cattle imports from all countries and creates additional restrictions on international live cattle trade. This was reported by Agriland, citing representatives of Algeria’s livestock sector and the Irish organization Bord Bia.

According to industry representatives, Algeria does not plan to resume cattle imports until a vaccination campaign has been carried out. Livestock markets have also been temporarily closed in several regions of the country. Bord Bia confirmed the import suspension and said it was seeking alternative markets for Irish exporters. However, as of October 27, Ireland’s Department of Agriculture had not yet received official notification of the restrictions.

Ireland could be among the suppliers most affected, as Algeria has recently become an important market for Irish young cattle. As of October 10, 2026, Irish cattle exports to Algeria had increased to 5.4 thsd head, almost 3.5 thsd head more than in the same period last year. By comparison, shipments to Morocco rose by 1.5 thsd head to 3.8 thsd head.

Meanwhile, Ireland’s total weanling exports have already fallen by 25% in 2026 to 28.6 thsd head, compared with 38.3 thsd head a year earlier. Total live cattle exports across all age categories reached 294.2 thsd head as of October 10, down 10% year on year. In particular, shipments to Spain declined by 16% to nearly 92 thsd head, while exports to Italy fell by 11% to 33.3 thsd head.

Algeria’s import suspension could intensify competition for alternative live cattle markets, particularly as demand for Irish cattle has weakened among traditional European importers. Exporters also face logistical constraints following Brittany Ferries’ decision to discontinue livestock transport services from Ireland. Currently, only one ferry company continues to provide such services, complicating efforts to expand shipments to European markets.

Tags: cattle, imports, live cattle, Algeria