Statement from Neil Wilson, Executive Director of the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS).
IAAS would like to remind customers of Scottish auction markets about the need for vet attestation numbers to accompany non-assured prime livestock if they are to be eligible for export when sold.
Whilst these rules have been in place since 12th December 2023, farm businesses have had a derogation that allows self-declaration of a vet visit to the farm within the last 12 months, which is coming to an end as of 12th April 2024.
From 12th April 2024 non-assured producers must be able to demonstrate that they have a Vet Attestation Number (VAN) or prime stock will be sold as not eligible for export.
Non-assured producers can obtain a VAN by speaking with their vet and arranging for one to be provided. The vet should also be able to register this number with ScotEID on their Export Eligibility Checker. This allows auction marts to automatically check whether the livestock consigned is eligible for export without the need for the farmer to bring in additional paperwork.
If farmers have any queries, please speak to your vet in the first instance or get in touch with your local auction mart.