Colombia stops poultry imports from Brazil due to avian influenza

Bogota, May 22 (Prensa Latina) The Colombian Agricultural Institute has temporarily stopped the import of live birds, their products, and byproducts from Brazil due to the outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) recently detected in the South American country.

May 22, 2025
14:49

According to a statement, the preventive measure was adopted after the Official Veterinary Service of the neighboring country confirmed an HPAI outbreak on May 15, 2025, on a breeding poultry farm in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

Given the severity of the outbreak, and in accordance with national and international regulations, the ICA is acting to protect the health of its birds and maintain Colombia’s status as a disease-free territory since 2011, the statement stated.

The source added that Colombia imports from Brazil mainly fertile eggs and a day-old chicks, which are essential for supplying the national poultry chain.

The suspension of these products reflects the Institute’s commitment to the prevention and control of diseases that could affect poultry production and the country’s food security, it was explained.

For her part, ICA General Manager Paula Cepeda noted that the IAAO represents a severe threat to the national poultry industry due to its high morbidity and mortality rates and trade restrictions.

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