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SÃO PAULO, June 18, 2025 – Brazil, the world’s largest poultry exporter, has officially declared itself free of the bird flu virus on commercial flocks after observing a 28-day period without any new outbreaks on commercial poultry farms, according to a statement from the country’s Ministry of Agriculture.
The countdown to reclaiming Brazil’s disease-free status began on May 22, following the complete disinfection of the farm where the country’s only commercial outbreak was detected last month in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The outbreak led to the culling of 17,000 birds and prompted China and several other major importers to ban chicken imports from Brazil, which accounts for 39% of global chicken trade.
Agriculture Minister Carlos Favaro stated that Brazil now aims to resume chicken exports with its trade partners, but this will require negotiations with each country individually. “We have taken all the steps under health protocols to once again declare ourselves free of highly pathogenic avian influenza,” Favaro said, emphasizing that the process to regain international recognition as disease-free is not automatic and must be confirmed by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH).
Earlier this year, initial concerns about additional outbreaks in other states, such as Tocantins and Santa Catarina, were ruled out after preliminary tests, though federal authorities continued additional testing to ensure the outbreak was contained.
Industry representatives, including BRF, Brazil’s leading food processor, expressed confidence that the crisis would be short-lived, citing strict biosecurity protocols and efficient government action as key factors in controlling the outbreak.
With the 28-day observation period now complete and no new cases reported, Brazil is poised to return to its dominant position in the global poultry market, pending final approval from international health organizations and the lifting of trade bans by importing countries.
Disclaimer:
This news article is based on information available from Reuters and other reputable sources as of June 18, 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are encouraged to consult official announcements and updates from relevant authorities for the latest developments. The author and publisher are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided herein.
