WASHINGTON: Despite months without bird flu infections in flocks, US poultry producers are still grappling with prolonged economic hardships as China and other importers maintain trade bans that were implemented during the nation’s worst-ever outbreak of the virus.
The bans, imposed last year to prevent the spread of the disease, are constraining the $6 billion US export market for poultry meat. The Chinese market, in particular, is crucial for US companies as it is the primary destination for items like chicken feet that are not typically consumed in the US.
Pilgrim’s Pride CEO Fabio Sandri warned that China may extend its ban, even as other countries resume trade. The situation is further complicated by limited labor, lower chicken prices, and uncertain feed costs. Countries such as China, South Africa, and the Dominican Republic continue to maintain bans on poultry from 37 US states that had previously reported infections. While Mexico, the largest overall market for American poultry meat, has largely lifted trade bans, some restrictions still remain in place for certain states.
US Poultry Industry Facing Prolong Export Ban
China’s failure to lift bans within 90 days after states eliminate avian flu from farms is seen as a violation of the Phase 1 trade agreement signed with former President Donald Trump in 2020. US industry officials have expressed concerns about the lack of progress and the impact on exports. However, China’s General Administration of Customs has not responded to requests for comment on the matter.
While the US Trade Representative’s (USTR) office declined to comment, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) had previously stated its commitment to ensuring that restrictions are aligned with international agreements and are lifted as quickly as possible. Nevertheless, US poultry producers continue to face significant challenges as they await the lifting of trade bans and seek the resumption of long-standing business relationships. The outbreak of avian flu has disrupted global trade in poultry, and authorities remain vigilant to prevent further spread and potential risks to human health.
