Bluetongue Restrictions in Wales
Bluetongue Restrictions in Wales: Impact on Livestock Movement and Rural Costs CLA Cymru raises concern over cost burden on livestock keepers
Bluetongue Restrictions in Wales: Impact on Livestock Movement and Rural Costs CLA Cymru raises concern over cost burden on livestock keepers
As of 20 June 2025, new control measures are in place in Wales to reduce the risk of bluetongue entering the country via animal movements. The Welsh Government has introduced restrictions during the high-risk transmission period, and CLA Cymru has been monitoring the potential impact closely.
While we support efforts to protect animal health, we are concerned about the financial and administrative pressures these controls place on livestock keepers, particularly those operating from or trading with affected zones in England.
Movement Restrictions
Key points from the restrictions zones:
Movements from England’s Bluetongue Restricted Zone (RZ) into Wales:
Cattle
- Must be vaccinated with Bultavo‑3 or
- Pre-movement tested and moved under licence
- Fully vaccinated cattle may enter Wales without further testing
Sheep
- Vaccination is not accepted for movement into Wales
- Must have a negative pre-movement test and be moved under licence
Movements within Wales or from Wales into England’s RZ:
- No movement restrictions currently apply
Movements to Slaughter:
- From 20 June, these may proceed without pre-movement testing
- From 1 July, only licensed abattoirs will be able to receive animals from affected areas
Next Steps
CLA Cymru recognises the biosecurity importance of these measures but is urging government to address our members concerns.
Impact may discourage legitimate trade and disproportionately affect small and medium-sized livestock keepers operating across regional borders.
What Members Should Do
- Check your responsibilities if moving animals from or to England’s restricted zones
- Speak to your vet about pre-movement testing or vaccination, where applicable
- Contact APHA to secure appropriate licences in advance of planned moves
- Monitor for symptoms and follow any additional reporting requirements
Further information:
- Welsh Government: https://www.gov.wales/bluetongue-control-measures-wales
- BTV guidance: https://www.gov.wales/bluetongue-virus-btv
- Statement update: https://www.gov.wales/written-statement-bluetongue-virus-serotype-3-btv-3-update