The National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases achieved a major milestone as its animal health laboratory in the Riyadh region gained international recognition from 33 countries — including 27 EU member states, the US, Japan, and several Gulf countries — to conduct testing for equine diseases linked to cross-border movement.

This achievement highlights the Kingdom’s advanced standing in laboratory work and strengthens its role in regulating the movement, import, and export of horses, while supporting its presence in local and international equestrian competitions.

The recognition is based on a reliable laboratory system with precise procedures and high-quality outputs, improving testing efficiency and ensuring results meet top international standards.

It reflects a comprehensive development effort led by the center from 2021 to 2025, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

This progress is further demonstrated by enabling horse exports with approved national certificates, underscoring the center’s expertise in diagnosing diseases linked to international equine movement, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to develop the livestock and equestrian sector and boost the Kingdom’s global presence.  SPA