The Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) reports that Brazil has been recognized as free of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), allowing poultry imports to resume. These imports had been suspended since May due to an outbreak in Rio Grande do Sul. The clearance includes fertile eggs, day-old chicks, poultry meat, processed products, and ornamental birds. The decision followed an on-site visit by SAG professionals, who verified the sanitary measures adopted by Brazil.
Minister of Agriculture Ignacia Fernández commented on the positive developments, stating that “this is excellent news and, above all, a significant accomplishment by SAG. The Service’s prompt response and effective communication with their Brazilian counterparts have facilitated the reopening of a market that is particularly important for the consumption of poultry products in Chile.”
To facilitate animal health and secure trade between the two nations, priority was given to evaluating three compartments for Brazilian establishments that supply avian genetics to Chilean producers. SAG gave its approval after conducting a thorough technical analysis of the information and verifying on-site compliance with Chilean regulations.
“In Chile, 75% of the chicken we eat is raised domestically, while only 25% is imported, primarily from Brazil, the United States, and Argentina. Of the imported share, Brazil supplies 77% of the total, making it our single largest supplier. With resumed imports from Brazil, we are committed to ensuring a steady supply of poultry products without compromising domestic production,” said Juan Carlos Domínguez, President of ChileCarne.
In addition, the Ministry of Agriculture has initiated an analysis of the activities required to establish a reciprocal health zoning process between Brazil and Chile for highly pathogenic avian influenza.
