MITA urges DA to lift Brazilian chicken import ban

The Meat Importers and Traders Association (MITA) has urged the government to quickly lift the import ban on Brazilian poultry following Brazil's declaration of being free from bird flu.

MITA President Jesus C. Cham stated that resuming chicken imports from Brazil before the 'ber months' is crucial to prevent price hikes, as prices have already been increasing due to the current ban.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) officially declared Brazil free from highly pathogenic avian influenza in commercial poultry on June 27, with 16 countries having lifted restrictions on Brazilian poultry exports.

Brazil is the Philippines' top supplier of chicken meat, accounting for nearly 60% of imports in the first four months of this year.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) awaits Brazil's regionalization documentation to lift targeted import bans, and additional countries are expected to announce market reopenings soon.

Brazil emphasizes its commitment to providing safe, high-quality, and affordable poultry products to support global food supply.