The Nicaraguan government issued an administrative decision in the Official Gazette (La Gaceta) on September 8, saying that the veterinary drug Zilpaterol (a type of "Clenbuterol") is banned in beef products exported from Nicaragua to China.

The Nicaraguan website "100noticias.com.ni" reported that the administrative resolution also stipulates that the producers and holders of "Zipatro" veterinary drug products must mark the words "this product is prohibited for use in beef products exported to China" on the product packaging, as well as the production date, expiration date and batch number of the product. The regulation must be implemented within six months and will be monitored by the Honduran Institute for Agricultural Protection and Health (IPSA).

In addition, another administrative decision issued by the Nicaraguan government prohibits slaughterhouses from exporting beef cattle and their products purchased at livestock auctions to the Chinese market.

The Government of Nicaragua stated that its immediate priority is to ensure the quality of food of animal origin and comply with the health inspection requirements of exporting countries for their live animals and meat products.

It is reported that in late August this year, the Nicaraguan government and the Chinese government signed a protocol on beef exports to China, which opened the door for Nicaraguan beef to be sold to the Chinese market.