Philippines lifts import ban on Dutch poultry

The Philippine government, through the Department of Agriculture (DA), has lifted the ban on the importation of poultry and poultry products from the Netherlands.

In a statement, the DA said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. issued Department Circular No. 05, which restored the market access for Dutch domestic and wild birds and their products—including poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and semen— “provided they originate from designated disease-free zones.”

The agency said the move restores a key European supply source while balancing strict border control measures.

The lifting of the import ban came after the Bureau of Animal Industry’s (BAI) technical review of the Dutch government's public health controls and outbreak management.

The DA said the BAI’s review found that the Netherlands maintains sufficient veterinary oversight and has implemented measures that result in a low risk of disease transmission. 

Under the system, trade restrictions are limited only to specifically affected areas rather than the entire country, where veterinary authorities can demonstrate robust surveillance and biosecurity, according to the agency.

“Regionalization is a smart, science-driven safeguard that allows us to protect Philippine poultry while honoring our trade commitments,” Tiu Laurel said. 

“After rigorous evaluation, we are confident that the Netherlands’ veterinary controls and containment measures effectively mitigate the risks of HPAI from accredited zones,” he added.

The DA said all import transactions will proceed under agreed terms and conditions and existing DA rules and regulations.

It said that the latest circular takes effect 15 days after publication on the DA’s official website and filing with the Office of the National Administrative Register. —VBL, GMA Integrated News