AFCD accepts mainland-issued pet health certificates, shortening quarantine

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) announced on Tuesday that it will now recognise animal health certificates for cats and dogs issued by mainland customs’ official veterinarians from all regions of China.

Under the new arrangement, pets meeting all stipulated requirements will see their mandatory quarantine period upon arrival in Hong Kong reduced to 30 days.

Eligible cats and dogs can enter the city through designated cargo channels at Hong Kong International Airport or through specified land control points.

To qualify, pets must comply with the AFCD’s Group IIIA import conditions. These include being implanted with an international standard microchip and possessing valid vaccination certificates for rabies and other specified infectious diseases.

Furthermore, the animal must have undergone a rabies antibody titer test at an AFCD-approved laboratory, yielding a satisfactory result.

This blood test must be conducted not less than 90 days and not more than one year prior to the pet's departure, with the corresponding health certificate issued by an official mainland veterinarian.