The Philippines has formally lifted its temporary ban on the import of poultry and poultry products from The Netherlands, following the bilateral recognition of the regionalization arrangement for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
In a news release dated February 14, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Department Circular No. 05 restoring market access for its wild birds and their products — including chicken meat, day-old chicks, and semen — provided they originate from disease-free areas.
The move follows a technical review by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) that is investigating the Dutch government’s public health controls and outbreak management.
The BAI found that The Netherlands has adequately managed and implemented measures that have resulted in a low risk of disease spread. Under the system, trade restrictions are limited to affected areas rather than the entire country, where veterinary authorities demonstrate robust surveillance and biosecurity.
Secretary Tiu Laurel said the decision reflects the risk-based approach to local agriculture and science-based control while maintaining open trade.
“Regionalization is a smart, science-based safeguard that will protect Philippine poultry while we fulfill our trade obligations,” said Tiu Laurel.
“After careful review, we are confident that The Netherlands’ veterinary controls as well as disease prevention measures have effectively reduced the risk of HPAI from accredited areas,” he added.
All import transactions will proceed under the agreed terms and conditions and existing DA rules and regulations. The order will take effect 15 days after it is published on the DA’s official website and filed with the Office of the National Administrative Register.
For local poultry stakeholders and food processors, this decision restores a major source of supply in Europe while balancing strict border control measures with the continuity of trade.