China is to ban the import of animals and animal products from nations with reported cases of avian flu or foot and mouth disease, according to a notice from the Ministry of Agriculture on Tuesday.

There were reports of avian flu cases discovered in Botswana and Denmark in May.

The ministry's notice demanded that avian products from countries with reported cases of avian flu will be returned or burnt. If these products are discovered on ships, aircraft or trains passing through China or with scheduled stops in China, they will be sealed.

China's quarantine inspection organization will enhance efforts to protect the safety of animals in China.

(Xinhua News Agency May 31, 2006)