Jail, up to Dh1 million fine: UAE passes draft law for illegal import of animals
A new draft law has specified jail time and fines ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million for illegal import of animals through unofficial channels, as part of a broader effort to protect the UAE from animal-borne diseases.
Under the draft law passed by the Federal National Council on Wednesday, June 25, all animal shipments entering, exiting, or transiting through the UAE will be subject to enhanced veterinary quarantine procedures designed to detect and prevent the spread of disease.
The proposed legislation grants the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment powers to impose import bans or restrictions on countries or regions where outbreaks pose a threat to national biosecurity. It stipulates that no animal shipments may enter the country except through officially designated border crossings. The ministry will identify these authorised ports of entry and specify which types of shipments are allowed at each.
In cases where an animal disease is detected in a source country, the law allows for imports under strict conditions, provided that the exporting country meets health regulations determined through risk assessment. Detailed procedures and documentation requirements will be outlined in the law's executive regulations. Importers must apply in advance for veterinary health certificates and permits from the ministry, with regulations also covering animal feed, by-products and waste material, not just live animals.
Violations will carry heavy penalties. Those who bypass official ports may face at least one year in jail and a fine ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million, with confiscation of the animals or products involved.
Repeat offenders will face doubled penalties. Fines of up to Dh500,000 may also be imposed on those who fail to comply with animal health import conditions, including transport specifications. Importers or owners who refuse to implement ministry directives concerning non-compliant shipments can face fines of up to Dh100,000.
The draft law also lays out administrative violations and penalties, which will be approved by the cabinet based on the minister's recommendations. It designates authorised inspectors appointed in coordination with the Ministry of Justice to act as judicial officers in identifying legal breaches. Fees related to the implementation of the law will be set by cabinet decision, following proposals from the minister and coordination with the Ministry of Finance.
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