Ajman Municipality has intensified its efforts to ensure the safe disposal of expired veterinary products, mandating veterinary establishments in the emirate to properly discard such items through accredited companies within three months of expiration.
The move comes as part of a stringent regulatory framework aimed at safeguarding public health and environmental safety.
During a recent inspection drive, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE), authorities reinforced compliance measures and underscored the severe consequences of regulatory violations.
Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violators of the regulations face strict penalties under Federal Law No. 9 of 2017 on veterinary products.
Fines range from Dh10,000 to Dh500,000, with further punitive measures including the confiscation of non-compliant veterinary products, suspension of operations, or even facility closures in cases of repeated violations.
Dr Khalid Moeen Al Hosani, Executive Director of the Public Health and Environment Sector in Ajman, stated that the municipality has developed a comprehensive plan to ensure veterinary facilities—such as clinics and pharmacies—adhere to federal regulations.
Regular inspection campaigns have been launched to monitor compliance and reinforce the importance of proper veterinary product management.
“The enforcement of these measures aims to protect public health, uphold veterinary safety standards, and ensure the proper management of veterinary products in the emirate,” Al Hosani told Khaleej Times.
Regulatory Requirements for Veterinary Facilities
Ajman Municipality has outlined clear directives for veterinary establishments, requiring them to adhere to specific licensing and documentation requirements. Veterinary facilities must ensure they have:
- A valid licence to practice veterinary services, including for on-call veterinarians.
- A facility licence issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.
- A public health pest control contract.
- A safe disposal contract for veterinary materials.
- Sales and purchase invoices for veterinary products to verify compliance.
Authorities have also restricted the use of veterinary pesticides to prevent misuse and mandated that all veterinary medicines must be sourced exclusively from approved suppliers with documented proof of authenticity.
Additionally, trading must only occur with Ministry-registered and licensed veterinary businesses.
Tackling Fraudulent and Expired Veterinary Products
Dr Al Hosani reiterated that strict action would be taken against those found guilty of selling, offering, possessing, manufacturing, or composing fraudulent, expired, or unlicensed veterinary products.
Offenders could face both financial penalties and imprisonment, reinforcing the seriousness of the regulations.
The crackdown aims to ensure veterinary facilities maintain high safety standards and prevent expired or fraudulent products from entering the market.
Authorities have urged all veterinary establishments to comply with the stipulated requirements, warning that non-compliance will lead to severe repercussions.
Ajman Municipality remains committed to enforcing these regulations and conducting ongoing inspections to uphold veterinary safety and protect public health.
Establishments that fail to meet the required standards have been advised to take immediate corrective measures to avoid facing penalties.
The initiative highlights Ajman’s dedication to maintaining stringent veterinary safety protocols, ensuring a healthier and more secure environment for both animals and the broader community.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members