Here’s a breakdown of the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1072:
**1. Essence of the Act:**
This regulation amends Annex I of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/594, which outlines special disease control measures for African swine fever (ASF). The changes involve updating the lists of restricted zones (I, II, and III) in various Member States (Germany, Latvia, Poland, and Slovakia) based on recent ASF outbreaks and improvements in the epidemiological situation. The goal is to proactively manage and combat the spread of ASF within the Union.
**2. Structure and Main Provisions:**
* **Article 1:** This article is the core of the regulation. It states that Annex I to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/594 is replaced entirely by the text provided in the Annex to this new regulation. This means all previous zoning designations are superseded.
* **Article 2:** Specifies that the regulation comes into force the day after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union, ensuring immediate action.
* **Annex:** This is the most substantial part. It provides the updated list of restricted zones I, II, and III for each affected Member State. The lists detail specific geographical areas (municipalities, districts, regions, etc.) within each zone.
**Changes Compared to Previous Versions:**
The regulation reflects the evolving ASF situation. It includes:
* **Delisting:** Removal of certain areas from restricted zone I in Germany and Poland due to the absence of ASF outbreaks for a specified period.
* **Reclassification:** Changing the classification of zones from I to II or II to I based on the current risk level.
* **New Listings:** Addition of new areas to restricted zones I, II, and III in Germany, Latvia, Poland and Slovakia following new outbreaks.
* **Boundary Redefinitions:** Adjustments to the geographical boundaries of existing restricted zones to accurately reflect the epidemiological situation.
**3. Main Provisions Important for Use:**
* **Geographical Specificity:** The Annex provides very detailed lists of affected areas within each Member State. It’s crucial for anyone involved in the movement of live pigs or pork products to carefully consult these lists to determine if their activities are impacted.
* **Zoning Implications:** The designation of an area as a restricted zone (I, II, or III) triggers specific disease control measures as outlined in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/594 and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687. Businesses and individuals need to be aware of these measures and comply with them.
* **Dynamic Nature:** The regulation acknowledges that the ASF situation is constantly evolving. This implies that the restricted zones are subject to change, and stakeholders need to stay informed about the latest updates.
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This regulation has implications for Ukraine, as African Swine Fever can affect international trade and the movement of animals and products. Ukrainians involved in the pig farming industry or related trade with the EU should be aware of these restrictions, as they may impact import/export activities and disease control measures.
