Download Hides and skins from specified animals - Final import risk analysis (April 2008)

This document is an analysis of the biosecurity risks posed by imported hides and skins of ruminants, horses, pigs, lamoids and ratites for processing into leather. This trade is in the interests of New Zealand companies operating in a globally competitive, fashion-driven industry where access to raw material at appropriate cost is vital.

This risk analysis was initiated as part of New Zealand’s obligation under Annex V of the EU veterinary agreement. However, it considers hides and skins from all countries. In this risk analysis, the starting point for the hazard identification is the disease lists of the OIE. The epidemiology of each disease is considered, particularly the survival of the agent in the environment and the commodity, and the route of transmission. For each disease a conclusion is reached as to whether or not it is considered a potential hazard in the commodity. The release assessment then examines the likelihood of potential hazards surviving processing. The exposure assessment considers possible routes of exposure of agents to susceptible animal species in New Zealand, and the consequence assessment considers the possible effects of such exposure. The risk estimation comes to a conclusion for each potential hazard as to whether safeguards are warranted.

Specific options for managing those risks are discussed.
General risk management options that are appropriate for effectively managing the low or very low risk posed by a number of organisms are discussed.