South Africa boosts egg and poultry imports

Following a recent outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) that led to the culling of 7.5 million chickens, South Africa is taking strategic measures to strengthen its egg and poultry product supplies. As egg stock levels gradually recover, the government is actively processing import permit applications to ensure a strong supply chain, particularly in preparation for the upcoming festive season.

According to the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), they currently have open import permits for eggs and poultry products from various countries. This strategic initiative aims to address the recent egg shortages caused by the avian influenza outbreak by allowing the importation of table eggs, fertilized eggs, pasteurized eggs, egg powder, and liquid eggs.

Bird Flu Mitigation Strategy: Importation of Day-Old Chicks

An essential aspect of South Africa's comprehensive strategy to combat bird flu is the importation of day-old chicks. This proactive measure, which is part of the broader bird flu mitigation strategy, aims to restore poultry stocks and ensure a consistent supply of eggs. Although the recent culling of chickens has resulted in localized shortages, it was a crucial step in containing the spread of the disease.

International Collaboration and Import Dynamics

Countries such as Brazil, the USA, and Argentina have long been reliable sources of eggs for South Africa. The DALRRD is actively reviewing import permit applications from other countries, demonstrating their dedication to upholding biosecurity standards. It is important to note that the department does not dictate which countries South African retailers should import eggs from based on business considerations. Instead, they prioritize conducting comprehensive biosecurity risk assessments when processing import permits.

Minister Didiza's Assurance and Future Projections

Agriculture Minister Thoko Didiza provided reassurance that the HPAI outbreak is under control, with 70% of unaffected farms continuing to produce eggs and chickens. Anticipating a normalization of the situation early next year due to the relatively short egg production cycle, Minister Didiza emphasized the government's commitment to importing more eggs should the local situation not improve.

Recent Import Statistics and Rapid Increase in Fertilized Eggs

In preparation for the festive season, South Africa has imported nine million fertilized eggs, 37,802 tonnes of day-old chicks, 62 tonne of egg products, and 30,986 tonnes of poultry meat. The significant rise in the import of fertilized eggs from 1.9 million to nine million in just under a month highlights the pressing nature of the situation and the proactive measures taken by the government to combat potential shortages.

In summary, as South Africa navigates the aftermath of the avian influenza outbreak, it is essential for the government, industry stakeholders and international partners to collaborate effectively. Their joint efforts are crucial in ensuring a stable and sufficient supply of eggs and poultry products for the nation. The focus on implementing robust biosecurity measures and maintaining the flexibility to import from various sources exemplifies a comprehensive strategy aimed at safeguarding both public health and the agricultural sector.