Saudi Arabia has banned chicken and egg imports from 40 countries, including India, citing health and food safety concerns. The move comes amid bird flu risks, with SFDA requiring strict processing certificates for exemptions.
India Hit as Saudi Blocks Poultry Imports Amid Health Concerns
New Delhi: Saudi Arabia has imposed a complete ban on the import of chicken and eggs from 40 countries, including India. According to media reports, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) issued this order. The decision is stated to strengthen food safety standards in the country and ensure the protection of people from potential health risks.
According to reports, this decision was taken based on risk assessments and international health reports. This step was taken, particularly considering the outbreak of diseases like avian influenza (bird flu). Some countries have been banned since 2004, while others were added to the list after a recent review. The SFDA also clarified that this list may be updated periodically depending on the global health situation.
The 40 countries with a complete ban include India, Afghanistan, Germany, Indonesia, Iran, Bangladesh, China, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Japan, Nepal, Nigeria, and Egypt. Meanwhile, 16 countries - such as Australia, the United States, France, Canada, and Malaysia - have imposed partial restrictions, restricting imports only from specific regions.
The authority stated that poultry products may be temporarily exempt if they are processed at temperatures high enough to kill the Newcastle disease virus. A certification from the relevant country's official health agency is required. Furthermore, the product must be from an accredited factory.
According to data from the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCIS), India's poultry exports increased to $149 million in the first half of the current financial year, double the $71.16 million in the same period last year. This figure translates to ₹1,288.63 crore in rupees.
Exports were boosted by strong demand from countries like the United Arab Emirates and Oman. However, this decision by Saudi Arabia may impact the Indian poultry business, especially if the ban continues for a long period.
