The Department of Agriculture (DA) has reopened the country’s doors to poultry imports from Belgium, a decision poised to support the Philippines’ food supply and reinforce trade ties with Europe.

The import ban — initially enforced on 17 February due to a bird flu outbreak in Sint-Niklaas, Oost-Vlaanderen — was a precautionary measure to safeguard local poultry growers from the threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1).

With the outbreak now under control, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. lifted the restriction through Memorandum Order 30, based on confirmation from Belgian veterinary officials that no fresh cases have been reported since 28 February. 

WOAH standards followed

The certification complies with standards set by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH).

“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,” the DA chief said.

Reinstating imports from Belgium is expected to help maintain a stable supply of poultry products in the country, especially amid continuing global agricultural challenges. The DA stressed that strict biosecurity safeguards remain in effect to protect the local industry.