MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has removed its temporary restriction on poultry and bird imports from Argentina after determining that the country has contained its outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Department Circular No. 29, which revoked an earlier import ban imposed through Department Circular No. 13. The previous order barred the entry of domestic and wild birds, poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and poultry semen from Argentina.

The DA said the move came after Argentine animal health authorities reported that the avian influenza incident that prompted the restriction had been resolved and that no further outbreaks had been recorded. Argentina has also regained its disease-free status under the standards of the World Organisation for Animal Health.

According to the Bureau of Animal Industry, its assessment showed that the risk of contamination from poultry imports originating from Argentina is negligible, allowing trade to resume once the new order takes effect.

“Restoring access to poultry products and breeding materials from Argentina strengthens our supply options at a time when food security remains a national priority,” said Tiu Laurel, adding: “A broader and more diversified sourcing base helps ensure adequate supply, supports the requirements of our poultry industry, and contributes to price stability for consumers while maintaining the strict biosecurity standards needed to protect local production.”

The reopening of imports is expected to support poultry integrators, breeders, and food processors that depend on imported breeding materials and raw inputs for local production.

The DA noted that sourcing from multiple countries helps industry players reduce exposure to supply disruptions caused by animal disease outbreaks, trade barriers, and logistical challenges.

While Argentina is not a major poultry supplier to the Philippines, the agency said the lifting of the restriction broadens the country’s sourcing options as the government seeks to strengthen food security and manage inflation. Additional access to poultry products and breeding stock could also help bolster supply stability and support the development of the local poultry industry.

The DA said the decision is consistent with its risk-based policy on animal disease control, under which import restrictions are imposed on countries reporting avian influenza cases and lifted once authorities verify that outbreaks have been contained and international health requirements have been met.

Importation of products slaughtered or produced after the issuance of the circular may resume in accordance with existing regulations. The order will take effect 15 days after its publication and filing with the Office of the National Administrative Register.