The Philippines has formally lifted its temporary ban on the importation of poultry and poultry products from The Netherlands, following the bilateral recognition of regionalization arrangement for HPAI.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. signed a Department Circular No. 05, restoring market access for domestic and wild birds and their products—including poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and semen—provided they originate from designated disease-free zones.
This move follows a technical review by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), which assessed the Dutch government’s public health controls and outbreak management. The BAI concluded that The Netherlands maintains sufficient veterinary oversight and has implemented measures that result in a low risk of disease transmission. Under this system, trade restrictions are limited only to specifically affected areas rather than the entire country, where veterinary authorities can demonstrate robust surveillance and biosecurity.
Secretary Tiu Laurel said the decision reflects a science-based, risk-managed approach to safeguarding local agriculture while keeping trade channels open. “Regionalization is a smart, science-driven safeguard that allows us to protect Philippine poultry while honoring our trade commitments,” Tiu Laurel said. “After rigorous evaluation, we are confident that The Netherlands’ veterinary controls and containment measures effectively mitigate the risks of HPAI from accredited zones.”
All import transactions will proceed under agreed terms and conditions and existing DA rules and regulations.
The circular takes effect 15 days after publication on the DA’s official website and filing with the Office of the National Administrative Register.
For local poultry stakeholders and food processors, this decision restores a key European supply source while balancing strict border control measures with trade continuity.
