April 20, 2020

Namibia stops poultry imports from Ukraine and South Carolina because of avian influenza

All poultry imports and in-transit movements of poultry and poultry products from both areas have been suspended due avian influenza outbreaks, reported Reuters.

In a statement by Namibia’s Directorate of Veterinary Services, poultry imports from Ukraine and South Carolina have been suspended, which includes live poultry and poultry products, ostriches and ostrich products.

Only consignments packaged before March 16, 2020 will be allowed into Namibia, with products packaged after to be sent back or destroyed at the cost of the importer.

Only poultry products produced in Ukraine before December 27, 2019 will be allowed to transit through Namibia.

In addition, Ukraine poultry products slaughters on and after March 4, 2020 will be allowed to pass through Namibia. Ukraine resolved its avian influenza cases on March 4.

The statement exempted cooked poultry products for commercial purposes, as long as a veterinary import permit has been obtained.

-      Reuters