The Philippines will temporarily halt poultry imports from Brazil following the country’s first confirmed bird flu outbreak at a commercial farm in Rio Grande do Sul, which killed nearly 7,400 breeders.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the Department of Agriculture (DA) will impose a country-wide ban, although efforts are underway to fast-track a regionalization strategy to limit the ban to affected areas.
Brazil supplies around 60% of the Philippines’ mechanically deboned meat (MDM), a key ingredient for processed foods like hot dogs and meatloaf, raising concerns about supply disruptions.
Industry sources, however, believe alternative suppliers such as Poland, Russia, and Germany can help fill the gap.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s poultry association assured that the government is addressing the outbreak and remains transparent in negotiations with trade partners.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 19, 2025
