Jersey cow embryo trading considered by States
The trading of cow embryos could be allow in Jersey if the rules on breeding cows are relaxed further.
A strict ban on the importing of bull semen was relaxed in 2008 and since then the bull semen has been used to breed pure Jerseys and cross-breeds.
Now the Environment Minister has asked the States to allow the importation and exportation of cow embryos.
It is one of a number of measures aimed at making Jersey's dairy industry more efficient and profitable.
Since relaxing the importation rules there have been inquiries from farmers in other countries wanting to get embryos from Jersey.
It could provide farmers with extra business opportunities, thus reducing the support the industry needs.
Allowing embryos to be traded is one of a number of measures aimed at making Jersey's dairy industry more efficient and profitable.