Here’s a breakdown of the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/568:
**1. Essence of the Act:**
This regulation amends Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/594, which lays down special disease control measures for African swine fever (ASF). The changes involve updating the restricted zones (I, II, and III) listed in Annex I and the infected zones listed in Annex II of the original regulation. These updates are based on the evolving epidemiological situation of ASF in various Member States, particularly in Poland, Hungary, Croatia and Spain. The goal is to prevent the further spread of the disease within the Union.
**2. Structure and Main Provisions:**
* **Amends Annexes I and II of Regulation (EU) 2023/594:** The core of this regulation is the replacement of Annexes I and II of the original act with updated lists of restricted and infected zones.
* **Updates Based on Epidemiological Situation:** The amendments reflect changes in the ASF situation in specific regions:
* **Poland:** An area in the Łódzkie region, initially listed as an infected zone, is now reclassified into restricted zones II and I due to ongoing outbreaks in wild porcine animals.
* **Hungary:** Areas previously listed as restricted zone I are now listed as restricted zone II due to new outbreaks in wild porcine animals in the Baranya County.
* **Croatia:** Areas in close proximity to the areas of Hungary affected by those recent outbreaks, are now listed as restricted zones I.
* **Spain:** Correction of an error in the previous Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/483 regarding the listing of certain areas in Catalonia.
* **Entry into Force:** The regulation takes effect the day after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
**3. Main Provisions Important for Use:**
* **Geographic Zones:** The key element of this regulation is the updated lists of restricted zones (I, II, and III) in Annex I and infected zones in Annex II. These lists define the specific areas where special disease control measures apply.
* **Obligations for Member States:** Member States with areas listed in the Annexes are obligated to implement the special disease control measures as outlined in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/594 and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/687.
* **Movement Restrictions:** The regulation directly impacts the movement of live pigs and certain pig products from and within the listed zones. Businesses and individuals involved in the trade of these animals and products need to be aware of these restrictions.
* **Regular Updates:** It’s important to note that the regulation acknowledges the dynamic nature of the ASF situation, implying that these zones may be subject to further changes in the future.
**:** This regulation has implications for Ukraine, as African Swine Fever is a concern in Eastern Europe. Ukrainians involved in the pig farming industry or trade with the EU need to be aware of these restrictions to avoid disruptions and ensure compliance.
