PH lifts import ban on Australian poultry

The Philippine government, through the Department of Agriculture, has lifted the ban on importing domestic and wild birds and related products—including poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and semen— from Australia.

In a statement on Wednesday, the DA said it issued Memorandum Order No. 39, lifting the ban on Australian bird and poultry products issued in June last year through Memorandum Order No. 21.

With the latest order, future shipments of the affected commodities from Australia will now proceed, subject to existing regulations and biosecurity requirements.

The import ban was lifted after Australian agriculture authorities and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) have confirmed that all reported bird flu cases in the said country had been resolved, with no new outbreaks occurring since June 13, 2025. 

With this, under WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code, Australia is now officially recognized as HPAI?free.

Following thorough assessment, the DA said that the risk of bird flu contamination via Australian poultry imports is negligible.

To recall, the ban was issued following reported outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).

Poultry goods produced in Australia on or after July 25 will be allowed entry to the Philippines.

“This diversifies our sources of poultry, especially with the expected increase in demand as we head towards the Christmas season,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. 

“This aligns with the vision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of a food-secure Philippines,” he added.

Reopening the Australian market—especially of day-old chicks and poultry meat—could ease supply pressure, stabilize prices, and support local production during transition periods, according to the DA.

The Agriculture Department said that standard import controls, including health certifications, testing, and sanitary protocols, remain in full effect to safeguard domestic poultry industries. 

Non?compliance may lead to denial of entry or quarantine.

“The order took effect immediately and applies to all pending and forthcoming import arrangements involving Australian poultry products. The DA will continue to monitor global HPAI developments and may adjust import policies should new risks emerge,” DA said. —AOL, GMA Integrated News