By Gurkha Insight • UK & World News • Aug 26, 2025 19:32 PM • 10 views
UK Bans Personal Imports of Meat and Dairy from EU to Prevent Foot and Mouth Disease New travel restrictions aim to protect British livestock, with fines up to ÂŁ5,000 for violations.
UK’s FMD-Related Travel Ban on Meat and Dairy Imports
From 12 April 2025, travellers entering Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) from EU countries are prohibited from bringing cattle, sheep, goat, and pig meat, as well as dairy products, including items like sandwiches, cheese, and cured meats [1112].
While Nepal is not directly mentioned in the FMD restrictions, Nepalese travellers transiting through or arriving from EU countries must comply with these rules to avoid confiscation or fines up to £5,000 [11].
Impact on Nepalese Travellers
While Nepal isn’t directly named in the bans, Nepalese travellers transiting through the EU or carrying traditional products (e.g., chhurpi, yak cheese) must comply:
Transit through EU airports: Meat/dairy bought in EU duty-free or packed meals cannot enter the UK.
Direct flights from Nepal: The UK’s existing rules still apply—personal imports of meat/dairy from non-EU countries are already banned unless commercially approved [18].
Future risks: If FMD spreads to South Asia, Nepal could face export restrictions like those imposed on Germany and Hungary. [59]
No Direct Nepal-Specific Ban, but Broader UK Travel Restrictions Apply
In 2021, the UK had placed Nepal on its "red list", banning travel due to COVID-19. 17 However, as of 2025, Nepal is not currently under a UK travel ban unless new advisories emerge.
The June 2025 US travel ban (unrelated to FMD) includes Nepal under African Swine Fever (ASF) restrictions, but this does not directly impact UK entry rules 5
Potential Indirect Effects on Nepalese Travellers
If Nepal were to experience an FMD outbreak, it could lead to UK import restrictions on Nepalese meat and dairy products, similar to those imposed on Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria [112].
Nepalese travellers carrying traditional meat or dairy products (e.g., chhurpi, yak cheese, or cured meats) from FMD-affected regions (e.g., India, Pakistan) could face confiscation at UK borders [9].
Advice for Nepalese Travellers to the UK
Avoid carrying meat/dairy products from the EU or FMD-endemic regions (e.g., South Asia).
Check UK government guidelines for exemptions (e.g., infant milk, medical foods, or processed items like chocolate) 11.
Monitor livestock health alerts if involved in agriculture, as FMD outbreaks could impact trade and travel in the future [12].
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