##  [Japan Suspends Imports of Raw Milk and Untreated Dairy Products from Greece Following FMD Outbreak](/consumer-industry-news/japan-suspends-imports-of-raw-milk-and-untreated-dairy-products-from-greece-following-fmd-outbreak) 

March 27, 2026

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) has announced the suspension of imports of raw milk and unheated/untreated milk products from Greece, following the confirmation of a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak.Background and Trigger-The emergency measure was introduced after an outbreak of FMD was confirmed in cattle in Lesvos, Greece on 15 March 2026, and subsequently reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health on 17 March 2026.FMD is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals, posing significant risks to animal health and livestock industries.  
The suspension specifically applies to:Raw milk,Unheated/unprocessed milk products,Products originating from Greece, including those transiting through third countries

These measures are implemented in accordance with:  
Japans Animal Health Requirements for raw milk and milk products  
Articles 37 and 44 of the Act on Domestic Animal Infectious Diseases Control  
Existing Restrictions and Clarification

MAFF clarified that:  
Imports of cloven-hoofed animals and their products (excluding milk) from Greece were already prohibited under existing legislation  
Imports of straw and animal feed from Greece are also banned

The measure aligns with international standards, particularly Chapter 8.8 of the WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code, which addresses infection with the FMD virus  
Implications for Trade  
Greek exporters of dairy products face immediate market access restrictions in Japan  
Importers must ensure strict compliance with updated sourcing restrictions  
The measure highlights Japans precautionary approach to biosecurity and disease prevention  
Japans swift suspension reflects a risk-based and precautionary response to emerging animal disease threats. By restricting high-risk dairy imports, MAFF aims to safeguard domestic livestock health and prevent the introduction of FMD into the country.



Source

[https://www.epingalert.org/en/Search/Index?freeText=food&distributionDateFrom=2…](https://www.epingalert.org/en/Search/Index?freeText=food&distributionDateFrom=2026-03-24&viewData=G%2FSPS%2FN%2FJPN%2F1395)

 

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Consumer News Tags

Japan,Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD),Import suspension Japan,Raw milk regulation,Unprocessed dairy products