South Africa and Singapore Reopen Doors to Brazilian Chicken After Bird Flu Scare

South Africa and Singapore have ended their bans on Brazilian chicken, bringing relief to Brazil’s poultry industry and to food suppliers in both countries.

The bans began in May 2025, after Brazil found a case of bird flu (H5N1) at a commercial farm in Rio Grande do Sul. This was the first time Brazil, the world’s largest chicken exporter, faced such an outbreak in its commercial flocks.

Brazil’s government responded quickly. Officials culled thousands of birds and set up strict safety zones. They monitored hundreds of nearby farms to make sure the virus did not spread.

After a month without new cases, the World Organisation for Animal Health declared Brazil free of bird flu in June. The outbreak hit exports hard. In June, Brazil’s poultry shipments dropped 23% to 314,000 tons, compared to the previous year.

Brazil’s Poultry Sector Recovers as Some Markets Reopen

China and the European Union, which together buy over 15% of Brazil’s chicken exports, kept their bans in place. South Africa and Singapore, both big buyers, also stopped imports at first.

This caused shortages and higher prices, especially in South Africa, where Brazilian chicken is a key source of affordable protein. After reviewing Brazil’s safety measures, South Africa agreed to accept chicken from unaffected regions.

Singapore not only lifted its ban but also made it easier for Brazilian companies to export there in the future. Other countries, including Japan and Argentina, have also resumed imports.

China and the EU still block Brazilian chicken, citing strict health standards. In 2024, China bought 562,000 tons and the EU 231,000 tons of Brazilian chicken. Their continued bans show the risks of relying on a few big buyers.

Brazil’s poultry industry is worth over $10 billion and supports thousands of jobs. The crisis showed how quickly disease can disrupt food supplies worldwide. It also proved that fast action and clear communication can help restore trade and trust.

The reopening of South Africa and Singapore’s markets marks a step forward. It highlights the importance of strong safety systems and international cooperation in keeping global food trade moving.

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