16 Jun 2025
Philippines lifts ban on Belgian poultry imports
The Philippines lifts its ban and reopens its door to Belgian poultry imports, helping to ensure a more stable supply chain.
The Philippine Department of Agriculture has lifted its temporary ban on imports of domestic and wild birds, including poultry products, from Belgium after confirmation that a recent avian influenza outbreak there has been fully contained.
The restriction was originally imposed on February 17, 2025 following an outbreak of the H6N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Sint-Niklaas, Oost-Viaanderren. As a precautionary measure, the DA halted poultry imports to safeguard the local poultry industry against potential viral transmission.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr announced the lifting of the ban through a memorandum order, citing official verification from Belgian veterinary authorities that the outbreak had been resolved. No new cases of avian flu were reported beyond February 28, and Belgium’s certification complies with World Organization for Animal Health guidelines.
⛓️💥 Improved supply chain
“Belgium is now free from HPAI, and the risk of contamination from importing domestic and wild birds and their products, including poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and semen, is negligible,” Mr Laurel stated.
With the restriction lifted, the Philippines can resume trade with of Europe’s key poultry producers. This is expected top ensure a more stable supply chain while maintaining strict biosecurity measures. The initial ban was put in place to protect the poultry sector, which plays a vital role in the country’s food security and agricultural and economic development.
The move is expected to bolster trade relations while reinforcing safety measures for the domestic poultry market. Authorities will continue to monitor import protocols and biosecurity standards to prevent future disruptions.
🐔 Rising imports
Meanwhile, Philippine chicken imports continue to rise. Data from the Bureau of Animal Industry show that the country brought in 154,540 tons of chicken by end-April this year, up 15% from 134,465 tons in the same period in 2024.
Brazil accounted for 60% of total imports, followed by the US (28%), Poland (4%). Belgium shipped over 4 tons prior to the imposition of the ban on February this year.
