Namibia has imposed a suspension on the importation of live poultry, birds, and poultry products from South Africa due to the increasing incidence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the neighbouring nation.
The suspension will remain in effect until further notice, as announced by the agriculture ministry in a statement issued on Wednesday.
South Africa is grappling with a significant bird flu outbreak, with poultry producer Quantum Foods (QFHJ.J) reporting last week that approximately 2 million chickens have succumbed to the virus.
Astral Foods (ARLJ.J), another poultry producer based in South Africa, disclosed that the overall expenses related to the outbreak had reached approximately 220 million rand ($11.5 million).
Namibia consumes approximately 2,500 tons of chicken each month, with the majority of its supply coming from imports, primarily sourced from South Africa.