PH lifts import ban on poultry from Argentina

The Philippines has lifted its restriction on importing poultry and birds from Argentina.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. issued Department Circular 29, which revoked the import ban imposed earlier this year on domestic and wild birds, poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and poultry semen from the South American country.

The trade restriction came after Argentina contained its outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

The DA said the decision followed official reports from Argentina's animal health authorities confirming that the avian influenza case that triggered the ban had been resolved and that no additional outbreaks had been detected.

The Agriculture Department's Bureau of Animal Industry said its evaluation found the risk of contamination from imports originating from Argentina to be negligible, clearing the way for the resumption of trade once the order takes effect.

"Restoring access to poultry products and breeding materials from Argentina strengthens our supply options at a time when food security remains a national priority," said Tiu Laurel.

"A broader and more diversified sourcing base helps ensure adequate supply, supports the requirements of our poultry industry, and contributes to price stability for consumers while maintaining the strict biosecurity standards needed to protect local production," added the Agriculture chief.

The DA said the move is expected to benefit poultry integrators, breeders, and food processors that rely on imported genetics and raw materials to support local production.

While Argentina is not among the Philippines' largest poultry suppliers, the Agriculture Department said the lifting of the ban expands sourcing options at a time when the government is focused on strengthening food security and containing inflation.

It said import transactions involving products slaughtered or produced after the issuance of the circular may resume in accordance with existing DA regulations.

The DA said the order takes effect 15 days after publication and filing with the Office of the National Administrative Register, formally reopening poultry trade between the Philippines and Argentina. — VDV, GMA News