Japan and Austria Banned from Exporting Poultry to The Philippines
Department of Agriculture (DA) Order
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has temporarily banned the importation of domestic and wild birds and their products from Japan and Austria. DA Secretary William Dar signed Memorandum Order No. 51 series of 2023 on January 30, 2023, implementing a temporary ban on the importation of poultry and poultry products from these countries.
Reason for the ban: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)
The ban is a response to the recent outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Japan and Austria. HPAI is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease that can affect both domestic and wild birds. The virus can be spread through contact with infected birds or their bodily fluids, and it can also be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or equipment.
The DA said that the ban is necessary to protect the Philippines' poultry industry from the HPAI virus. The Philippines is currently free from HPAI and the DA is taking all necessary measures to prevent the virus from entering the country.
Scope of the ban
The ban covers all domestic and wild birds, as well as their products, including meat, eggs, feathers, and manure. The ban also includes used poultry equipment and materials that may have been contaminated with the HPAI virus.
Exceptions to the Ban
The DA said that there are some exceptions to the ban. These exceptions include:
- Cooked poultry products that have been processed in a manner that kills the HPAI virus.
- Poultry products that are in transit through the Philippines to another country.
- Poultry products that are imported for scientific or research purposes.
The DA said that all importations of poultry and poultry products from Japan and Austria will be subject to strict quarantine inspection and testing. Only poultry and poultry products that are free from the HPAI virus will be allowed to enter the Philippines.
Penalties for violating the ban
Anyone who violates the ban on the importation of poultry and poultry products from Japan and Austria may be subject to penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Cooperation from the public
The DA is asking for the cooperation of the public in implementing the ban. The DA said that the public should report any suspected cases of HPAI to the nearest Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) office.
