China Ban After Brazil Confirms Bird Flu Outbreak
Brazil Confirms First Bird Flu Case on Chicken Farm, China Imposes Trade Ban
Brazil has confirmed its first case of the highly contagious bird flu virus on a commercial chicken farm, triggering an immediate trade ban from its largest chicken export partner, China.
The outbreak occurred on a farm in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, as announced by the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture on Friday. This marks the first time the virus has been detected in a commercial setting in Brazil, which is the world’s largest meat exporter and second-largest chicken producer globally, behind the United States.
In 2024, Brazil’s chicken meat exports reached a record 5.294 million metric tons, generating $9.928 billion in revenue. China was the top destination, importing 562,200 metric tons. Other key markets include the United Arab Emirates, Japan, and Saudi Arabia.
Following the confirmation, China swiftly imposed a temporary ban on poultry imports from Brazil. The Brazilian government has stated that a contingency plan has been activated to contain and eradicate the outbreak and has notified the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and other trade partners.
The Ministry of Agriculture emphasised that the disease is not transmitted through the consumption of chicken meat or eggs, assuring the public of the safety of inspected products. The risk of human infection is considered low and primarily associated with direct contact with infected birds.
Brazil has been implementing preventative measures against bird flu for nearly two decades. Authorities are now working to contain the spread and have implemented a 60-day animal health emergency in the affected region.
Original source: Reuters
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