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The Department of Agriculture lifted the import ban on poultry and bird products from Argentina following the country’s successful containment of the highly pathogenic avian influenza
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The move aims to bolster domestic supply chains, support industry needs, and help stabilize consumer prices, according to DA
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Under its risk-based disease management policy, the agency authorized the resumption of Argentine poultry imports—specifically for items slaughtered or produced after the circular’s issuance—contingent upon compliance with all existing safety protocols
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has lifted its temporary ban on the importation of poultry and bird products from Argentina, citing the country’s containment of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Department Circular No. 29, which formally revokes restrictions previously imposed under Department Circular No. 13. The new policy allows the entry of domestic and wild birds, poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and poultry semen from Argentina, effective 15 days after its publication and filing with the Office of the National Administrative Register.
The DA’s decision follows reports from Argentine animal health authorities confirming that the HPAI outbreak has been resolved. The World Organisation for Animal Health subsequently restored Argentina’s disease-free status, prompting the Bureau of Animal Industry to conclude that the risk of contamination from Argentine imports is now negligible.
The lifting of the ban is intended to broaden the Philippines’ sourcing options for poultry products and breeding materials. According to the DA, diversifying the supply base is a strategy to support the domestic poultry industry and contribute to price stability.
“Restoring access to poultry products and breeding materials from Argentina strengthens our supply options at a time when food security remains a national priority,” Tiu Laurel said in a statement.
While Argentina is not a primary poultry supplier for the Philippines, the resumption of trade is expected to assist local integrators, breeders, and food processors who rely on imported genetics. Industry stakeholders typically source from multiple nations to mitigate the risk of supply disruptions caused by disease outbreaks or logistical issues.
The agency maintains that it utilizes a risk-based approach to animal disease management, which includes implementing temporary trade restrictions during outbreaks and restoring market access once veterinary authorities verify that international health standards are met.
Imports from Argentina will be permitted for products slaughtered or produced following the issuance of the circular, provided they comply with existing DA regulations.
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