Philippines Bans Poultry Imports from Brazil Following Bird Flu Outbreak

The Philippines has imposed a ban on poultry imports from Brazil after the South American country confirmed a bird flu outbreak, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced Monday.

Speaking at a press briefing in Malacañang, Tiu Laurel explained that since the Philippines has no regionalization agreement with Brazil, the ban would apply nationwide.
“Brazil was hit by bird flu, and since we don’t have a regionalization agreement, the entire country is affected by the ban,” he said.

Brazil, the world’s top chicken exporter, confirmed its first avian flu outbreak on a poultry farm last Friday. The farm reportedly supplies Vibra Foods, which is supported by U.S.-based Tyson Foods.

To ease concerns about a possible chicken shortage, Tiu Laurel assured the public that the Philippines has alternative sources.
“There may be a brief supply gap of one or two weeks as we shift sources, but overall, we don’t see a major issue. Our local poultry industry is producing well,” he added.

The Department of Agriculture is working to maintain stable supply and pricing as the country transitions to other poultry suppliers.