Bird flu: Neighbouring countries ban SA poultry products

28 September 2023

By: Carien Kruger

Due to highly contagious bird flu in South Africa, Botswana and Namibia have banned the import of poultry and poultry products from the country, including from bird flu-free areas.

Kefentse Motshegwa, director of veterinary services in Botswana, said in a media release that imports of poultry and poultry products from South Africa are prohibited due to the outbreaks.

The practice of importing laying hens, hatching eggs and day-old chicks from bird flu-free areas has been suspended until the list of unaffected areas can be reviewed through consultation with South African veterinary authorities.

All import permits for poultry and poultry products from South Africa have been immediately cancelled.

The movement of fresh poultry products from other countries into South Africa is allowed with a permit.

Reuters reported that Namibia has also banned the import of live poultry as well as poultry products from South Africa.

Izaak Breitenbach of the South African Poultry Association said South Africa’s exports of chicken products to neighbouring countries are relatively small. 

“Our total exports to our neighbouring countries account for only 1-2% of total production. Therefore, it has a very small impact. Unfortunately, it will not help us much with the shortage of eggs and chicken meat in the South African production line.”

Significant financial impact

Chicken producer Rainbow, part of the listed RCL Foods group, said in a release to its shareholders that the bird flu outbreak has affected 11 out of 19 sites in its domestic region. It operates in three regions.

“The outbreak is spreading rapidly and the situation is evolving continuously. So far, an estimated 410 000 chickens have been culled, resulting in an estimated financial impact of R115 million,” it said.

“Rainbow is taking all necessary steps to combat the spread of the virus, which includes cooperation with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development to obtain registration and approval for suitable vaccines.

“In addition, all necessary steps are being taken to manage disruptions in the supply chain effectively, although it is essential to acknowledge that there is tension in the supply chain.”

Astral Foods said last week that its bird flu-related costs in the current financial year amount to R220 million.