FMD-infected farms’ losses mount, say sector representatives

AMMAN — The compensation package for farms, affected by foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) should cover all relevant losses, said Chairman of the Dairy Cattle Cooperative Laith Al Hajj.

Over the phone with The Jordan Times, Hajj spoke about the challenges facing cattle farms. He noted that “most farmers now have financial difficulties and are struggling to meet their commitments.”

He added that “sector operators need total compensation, but the agriculture minister in the most recent meeting pointed out that the compensation will only take into consideration dead cattle”. He estimated that “current losses have surpassed JD35 million”.

The compensation is supposed to cover three main aspects: Dead cattle, low milk yield and cattle medication, he added.

The Ministry of Agriculture on Tuesday held a meeting with associations representing cattle farms, to discuss and agree on compensation.

Moreover, the President of Al Dhuleil Dairy Cattle Association Ali Ghabayen, told The Jordan Times that “the immediate compensation of FMD-infected farms to incentivise farmers and accelerate the full recovery of cattle farms”.

According to the ministry’s specialised committee, the losses have surpassed JD4.5-JD5 million, Ghabayen said.

The Jordan Times on Thursday contacted the ministry’s spokesperson. However, he was not available for comment.