Hanoi, Aug. 12 -- The Philippines has imposed a temporary ban on the importation of live cattle and buffalo and their by-products from France and Italy to prevent the entry of the lumpy skin disease (LSD) virus into the country, its Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on August 11.

The DA said that the ban is necessary to protect the Philippines' cattle and water buffalo populations. The restrictions cover live bovines and water buffaloes, including semen and embryos.

However, skeletal muscle meat, casings, gelatin and collagen, tallow, hooves, and horns are considered "safe commodities" and, therefore, excluded from the temporary ban, but subject to the country's import terms and conditions.

Certain products are allowed, but also...