USDA Veterinary Services has updated and improved the process for importing restricted animal products to better ensure the safe movement, handling, and treatment of these products. The changes focused specifically on the USDA Approved Establishment (AE) program, which allows certain animal products to be imported into the US for treatment at certain approved facilities. This process is most commonly used to import and treat hunting trophies.
USDA has developed some changes to the AE program that will modernize the program, improve traceability, improve accountability, increase efficiency, and increase the consistency of program standards across the country. These changes are currently being implemented and we will present an overview of the changes. We will also distribute outreach materials and be available to answer any questions or concerns.