SA partially lifts Brazil poultry ban

The suspension was initially imposed in May following reports of an avian influenza outbreak in one of Brazil’s states.

However, the Department of Agriculture has received a second report from Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, confirming that the outbreak has been successfully contained within a 10-kilometre radius and has not spread to other areas.

"We are glad that, a month after the outbreak was reported in Brazil, we have been able to assess and confirm that risks associated with the importation of poultry and poultry products from Brazil are insignificant. We are closely monitoring the situation," said Steenhuisen in a statement.

The decision comes after South African veterinary services engaged with Brazilian authorities to assess the extent of the outbreak, the containment measures in place, and the health status of other production zones across Brazil.

According to the department, poultry products produced outside the outbreak zone pose no health risk and are considered safe for import.

However, the minister cautioned that the decision to partially resume imports could be reversed if new cases of avian flu emerge in other states.

"We are glad that, a month after the outbreak was reported in Brazil, we have been able to assess and confirm that risks associated with the importation of poultry and poultry products from Brazil are insignificant. We are closely monitoring the situation," added  Steenhuisen.

South Africa now joins several other countries that have partially lifted their own bans on Brazilian poultry, helping ease pressure on local markets dependent on imported chicken and related products.

Brazil is one of the world’s largest poultry exporters and a key trade partner for South Africa in the agricultural sector. The ban had raised concerns about potential shortages and price hikes in the domestic market.

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