Brazil Halts Poultry Exports after Newcastle Disease Outbreak

Brazil, the world’s top chicken exporter, has paused poultry exports to several countries following a Newcastle disease outbreak in Rio Grande do Sul. With 7,000 birds culled and potential restrictions affecting up to 60,000 metric tons, the move aims to contain the outbreak and maintain health protocols.

Brazil, the world's leading chicken exporter, has voluntarily suspended poultry exports to several countries after a case of Newcastle disease was confirmed in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, announced the agriculture ministry on Friday.

The decision comes as local authorities work to contain the viral outbreak following the death of around 7,000 birds on a farm. The remaining flock was culled to comply with health protocols, as confirmed by the meat lobby group ABPA.

Government investigators found at least one positive case of Newcastle from a sample of 12 birds. Newcastle disease causes respiratory issues in birds and can be fatal. Import restrictions could impact 50,000 to 60,000 metric tons of poultry exports, significantly affecting Brazil’s average monthly export of 430,000 tons. The restrictions vary by country, affecting sales to key markets like China, Argentina, the European Union, Japan, and Saudi Arabia.