The Philippines imposed a temporary ban on imports of poultry and related products from Türkiye following an avian influenza (AI) outbreak there.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr said the measure aims to protect the local poultry industry, which plays a key role in food security, job creation, and investment.
Türkiye’s veterinary authorities reported an outbreak of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Saraydüzü, Merkez, to the World Organization for Animal Health on March 5. In response, the Philippines has halted imports of poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and semen used for artificial insemination.
Mr Tiu Laurel also suspended the issuance and processing of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances for affected products. Additionally, poultry products from Türkiye slaughtered or manufactured before January 1, 2025, will be denied entry.
The Philippines has imposed bans on several areas affected by avian influenza as a precautionary step to prevent the spread of AI viruses in the country.