Importation of Animal Semen

We are amending our regulations concerning the importation of animal semen by eliminating importation requirements for all canine semen from anywhere in the world and for equine semen from Canada. We believe these changes are warranted because canine semen and equine semen from Canada pose no threat of introducing diseases to U.S. livestock. This action will reduce regulatory requirements for the importation of semen while continuing to protect the health of U.S. livestock. We are also requiring that other animal semen be imported only in shipping containers that bear the official government seal of the national veterinary service of the region of origin. This action will help prevent the importation of animal semen that does not meet the requirements of our regulations.