The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has officially recognised Brazil as free of foot-and-mouth disease without the need for vaccination, according to a statement released Thursday by the Brazilian beef industry lobby, Abrafrigo.

As the world’s leading exporter of beef, Brazil may now benefit from expanded market opportunities thanks to this certification.

According to Abrafrigo, this is the first time Brazil has reached such a high standard in its sanitary control measures.

The organisation, which represents major Brazilian meat processors including Marfrig, described the recognition as a “historic moment for the beef agro-industrial chain.”

Abrafrigo further stated that “the new status also brings new challenges and responsibilities for all actors involved, with the aim of maintaining the herd in adequate sanitary conditions and increasingly strengthening the country's role as a major producer and supplier of animal-origin food for Brazil and the world.”

The Brazilian Agriculture Ministry has not yet responded to requests for comment.