Restrictions lifted on poultry importation from South Africa

31 May 2024

Government, Press Release

The Ascension Island Government announces the lifting of the prohibition on the importation of all poultry and poultry products originating from South Africa with immediate effect. This means that all bird eggs, chilled and frozen raw meat and raw offal which were previously prohibited can now be imported to Ascension Island.

This decision follows a veterinary risk assessment conducted in St Helena regarding the 'highly pathogenic avian influenza' (HPAI) outbreaks in South Africa. The assessment concluded that the risk of HPAI transmission through imports from South Africa is currently minimal. Therefore, the prohibition on imports from South Africa has been lifted. The ban was also lifted in St Helena last week.

Since September 2023, South Africa has implemented robust biosecurity measures, effectively controlling the spread of HPAI. These measures include regular monitoring and establishing Notifiable Avian Influenza (NAI) Free Compartments, ensuring a controlled export of live birds, poultry meat, and eggs.

However, it is important to note that the ban on all poultry and poultry products from the Falkland Islands remains in effect, and the situation will continue to be under regular review.

The public are thanked for their continued cooperation and understanding in maintaining the biosecurity of Ascension Island.