July 18, 2024

Chile recognises Argentina free from HPAI

Chile has officially recognised Argentina as a country free from high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI).

This recognition came after Argentina successfully contained and eradicated outbreaks of avian flu in its commercial poultry farms. As a result, poultry exports between the two neighboring countries have resumed.

The recognition is the result of rigorous and coordinated work between the sanitary authorities of Chile and Argentina, said Chilean government officials. This ensures that poultry products imported from Argentina meet the highest standards of sanitary safety.

The avian flu outbreak in Argentina began in early 2023, causing concern among poultry producers and disrupting trade. The disease led to the suspension of poultry exports from Argentina.

Swift action by the National Service for Agri-Food Health and Quality (SENASA) helped contain the outbreaks and restore Argentina's disease-free status.

Last August, Dr. Ximena Melón, National Director for Animal Health at SENASA, submitted a self-declaration to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The declaration confirmed Argentina's status as a country free from HPAI, in accordance with the WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code. The scope of this declaration covers the entire country, including its poultry production systems.

Due to HPAI, Argentine chicken meat exports declined by 28% in volume and 35% in value during the first semester.

- aviNews