MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has lifted its temporary ban on the importation of domestic and wild birds, as well as poultry products, from six US states following the resolution of bird flu outbreaks, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. announced Thursday.

The import ban, which covered Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, had been in place earlier this year due to the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in those areas.

According to Tiu Laurel, the decision to lift the restriction was made after US veterinary authorities confirmed to the World Organisation for Animal Health that the outbreaks had been contained, with no new cases reported since June 9.

“The lifting of the import ban is based on science and in accordance with international standards,” said Tiu Laurel. “Our primary concern is protecting the local poultry industry, a vital part of our food security plan and a major contributor to economic activity.”

The move is expected to support the country’s poultry supply and help mitigate food inflation, which remains one of the main drivers of overall inflation. It also aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s broader strategy to stabilize food prices and strengthen food security.

The lifting of the ban applies not only to poultry meat but also to eggs, day-old chicks, and bird semen used in artificial insemination.

Despite the resumption of imports, Tiu Laurel emphasized that all shipments must adhere to existing veterinary quarantine procedures and food safety regulations. The policy will remain in place unless revoked through a formal written directive.