Saudi Arabia suspends poultry and egg imports from France and Poland

Saudi Arabia has imposed a temporary ban on the import of poultry and table eggs from France and Poland following outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza and Newcastle disease in some provinces of the two countries.

The measure was announced by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), which said the decision was taken in response to an immediate advisory issued by the World Organisation for Animal Health after the outbreaks were reported.

According to the authority, the ban applies to poultry, table eggs and their products originating from affected areas in France and Poland. The SFDA said the action is temporary and linked directly to the animal health situation in the two European countries.

Temporary ban on French, Polish poultry

The authority clarified that the ban excludes poultry meat, table eggs and related products that have undergone heat treatment sufficient to eliminate the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus in France and the Newcastle disease virus in Poland. However, such products must comply with approved health requirements and standards.

The SFDA stipulated that imports falling under this exemption must be accompanied by a health certificate issued by the official authorities accredited in France and Poland. The certificate must confirm that the product is free from the virus causing the disease or that the virus has been eradicated through approved treatment processes.

France and Poland are currently dealing with significant outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza and Newcastle disease affecting poultry and wild bird populations. As of January 2026, both countries are experiencing ongoing outbreaks, which have prompted strict control measures, including mass culling.

The SFDA said the decision forms part of its role in monitoring international animal health developments and taking precautionary measures to protect food safety and public health in the Kingdom.

The authority added that it will continue to follow updates from international organisations and the relevant authorities in exporting countries.