The Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) has detailed its recent visit to Paris for a meeting with the International Office of Animal Health (OIE). The aim of the visit, PFMA said, was to find out more about its standard-setting work on animal health and its role in international trade.

Michael Bellingham, PFMA’s chief executive, said: “Our meeting with OIE was prompted by the prospect of the UK leaving the EU and seeking to be a more global player. PFMA recognises this and is gearing up with a series of meetings with key international organisations who will have a critical impact on our sector.”

Last autumn, PFMA visited the World Trade Organisation in Geneva, OIE is a key partner in global trade with the WTO setting standards for farm animal health and welfare.

Mr Bellingham added: “Whilst OIE already has a partnership agreement with the Global Pet Food Alliance (which PFMA belongs to through its European counterpart, FEDIAF), it is clear they see the UK becoming a key influencer in OIE directly working on pet food issues.”

Whilst in Paris, PFMA also met the trade team at the British Embassy to discuss practical challenges raised by members on future trade across the Channel.