Bird flu crisis prompts a push for regional trade protocols

The global poultry industry is grappling with the ongoing threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which has severely disrupted supply chains and international markets. As the crisis continues, regionalisation emerges as a potential strategy to stabilise the poultry trade and mitigate the impacts of disease outbreaks.

Background and Context

Avian influenza has been a persistent issue for decades, but its impact has intensified since 2022, spreading across all inhabited continents and affecting bird populations in over 100 countries. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) estimates that over 633 million birds have been lost due to the disease, leading to significant economic and social consequences. Export halts, rural unemployment, and food security concerns are among the challenges faced by countries heavily reliant on poultry imports.

Market Implications

The United States, a major poultry producer, has seen egg prices soar due to the culling of over 170 million birds. Other key exporters, including France, Japan, Mexico, and Canada, have also experienced substantial economic losses. In response, there is a growing emphasis on strategies such as vaccination, enhanced biosecurity, and regionalisation to maintain trade during outbreaks. Regionalisation, in particular, aims to limit trade bans to affected zones, allowing unaffected areas to continue exporting.

Industry Perspectives

Nicolò Cinotti, secretary-general of the International Poultry Council (IPC), underscores the importance of adopting regionalisation as a global standard, supported by WOAH and WTO guidelines. Despite the legal framework, the implementation of regionalisation varies widely. The Brazilian Association of Animal Protein (ABPA) supports this approach, highlighting its potential to prevent nationwide export bans due to isolated incidents. Brazil's recent experience with avian influenza in Rio Grande do Sul demonstrated the effectiveness of regionalisation, as diplomatic efforts reduced trade restrictions significantly.

Challenges and Opportunities

While regionalisation offers clear benefits, challenges remain. Effective monitoring, traceability, and compliance with international standards are essential but costly, posing barriers for developing countries. Political and diplomatic hurdles also persist, with some countries imposing restrictions despite scientific evidence. The IPC and ABPA advocate for greater international cooperation and capacity-building to overcome these obstacles.

In conclusion, regionalisation presents a promising path for ensuring the stability of the global poultry trade amidst ongoing health crises. However, achieving widespread adoption requires concerted efforts to address technical, political, and economic challenges.

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