PH lifts ban on importing poultry from 6 US states

The Philippine government, through the Department of Agriculture (DA), has lifted the ban on the importation of domestic and wild birds as well as poultry meat and products from six American states—Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

In a statement on Thursday, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the importation ban—imposed earlier this year due to outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the six US states— was lifted after US veterinary authorities confirmed that the outbreaks have been resolved. 

Also covered by the lifted ban are poultry products such as eggs, day-old chicks, and bird semen used for artificial insemination.

Citing a report submitted to the World Organisation for Animal Health, Tiu Laurel said that there have been no new cases of bird flu in the affected areas since June 9.

“The lifting of the import ban is based on science and in accordance with international standards,” the Agriculture chief said.

“Our primary concern is protecting the local poultry industry, a vital part of our food security plan and a major contributor to economic activity,” he said.

With the resumption of importation, the Agriculture chief said the country’s poultry supply would be strengthened, which would then help ease price pressures.

Tiu Laurel, nonetheless, said all incoming shipments must still comply with the DA’s existing veterinary quarantine protocols and food safety regulations. 

The lifting of the ban will remain in force unless officially revoked in writing, according to the DA chief.

“The policy update reaffirms the DA’s commitment to science-based decision-making and responsible international trade,” Tiu Laurel said. —VAL, GMA Integrated News