Federal Register #Docket No. APHIS-2025-0018

APHIS Removes Pre-Export Examination Documentation Requirement for Imported Horses

This final rule from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Department of Agriculture, updates import regulations for horses: - Removes the requirement for imported horses to have documentation of a pre-export examination conducted within 48 hours of departure, previously endorsed by a salaried veterinary medical officer - Addresses logistical challenges for importers while maintaining disease prevention protocols - Mandatory inspections at the port of entry remain in place - Quarantine procedures for imported horses are still required - No procurement of products or services is involved - No OEMs or vendors are referenced in this notice

Description

This final rule removes the requirement that horses imported into the United States be accompanied by documentation of a pre-export examination conducted within 48 hours of departure from the port of embarkation and endorsed by a salaried veterinary medical officer. The change addresses logistical challenges faced by affected parties while maintaining other existing import regulations to protect U.S. livestock from communicable diseases. The rule retains mandatory inspections at the port of entry and quarantine protocols to mitigate disease risks. The effective date of this rule is May 11, 2026.

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