In response to the recent bird flu outbreaks in Japan, Singapore has taken a precautionary step by suspending its poultry imports. Subsequently, on Dec. 8, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) made the decision, which specifically targets raw poultry and poultry products from four Japanese prefectures.
Source: FoodSHAP® Blog
The Scope of Poultry Imports Ban
The ban on poultry imports is a necessary measure to curb the spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza, which has affected Saga, Ibaraki, Saitama, and Kagoshima prefectures in Japan. While the ban is comprehensive, it does exempt poultry products that have been heat-treated and comply with World Organisation for Animal Health guidelines.
Source: CDC
Effects on Global Poultry Imports
This move isn’t unique to Singapore. Similar bans on poultry imports have been implemented in certain areas of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe due to concerns about avian flu. These global measures highlight the severity of the current bird flu outbreaks.
Escalating Bird Flu Outbreaks in Japan
Japan reported its first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or bird flu, at a poultry farm in the south of the country on Nov. 23. Subsequently, local government officials ordered the culling of 40,000 birds on the farm located in Saga prefecture to prevent the spread of the virus.
Source: The Japan Times
By Dec. 3, Japan had reported its fourth HPAI bird flu outbreak for the season, hitting a farm in Kagoshima. These outbreaks follow Japan’s worst bird flu outbreak last season, which resulted in more than 17 million chickens being culled and egg prices skyrocketing. The egg shortage was so severe that many food outlets in Japan, including popular chains like McDonald’s and 7-Eleven, stopped offering egg-based dishes.
Singapore’s Diversified Poultry Supply
Singapore sources 70% of its egg supply from 19 countries, an increase from 12 in 2019. In a bid to further diversify its supply, local company ISE Food Holdings announced in October 2022 that it would launch Singapore’s fourth egg farm in 2024, with support from ISE, Japan’s largest egg producer.
Looking Forward
While the temporary suspension of poultry imports is a necessary measure to protect public health, it serves as a reminder of the importance of diversified supply sources. As Singapore continues to navigate these challenges, consumers can rest assured that the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of our food supply.
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