The reason for this potential decision is avian influenza. Since the beginning of the year, the disease has been detected in 75 locations across the country.
As reported by Gazeta Wyborcza, a nationwide embargo on poultry was initially considered, but discussions have now shifted towards restricting imports from western Poland and parts of Mazovia (in central Poland), which together account for up to 40% of the country’s poultry production.
Poland in talks with the EU over poultry trade ban amid avian flu
"Negotiations are ongoing between our Ministry of Agriculture and the European Commission. As of the time of publishing this article, it is still unclear how broad the trade ban on our poultry meat will be," the article states.
"Certain exemptions may apply to regions where outbreaks are occurring, but it cannot be the case that an embargo will be imposed across the entire country," commented Adam Szłapka, the Minister for European Affairs, on Radio Poznań.
"Representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture are in contact with the European Commission. We have a common European market, and our task is to prevent any disruptions across the entire European market, including the Polish market. We will fight to ensure that no harm befalls our poultry producers," he added.
Adam Szłapka, the Minister for European Affairs. Photo: Piotr Podlewski/Polskie Radio
RMF FM: Poultry export ban to take effect in Poland from April 23
On Friday, RMF FM, citing information from its journalist, reported that starting from April 23, poultry exports from certain regions of Poland will be banned.
The embargo will cover counties where avian influenza outbreaks have been detected. The ban will not only affect poultry producers but also hatcheries and egg production companies. The sale of eggs and meat on the domestic market will only be allowed with veterinary approval.
Poland is a leader in poultry production in Europe. Last year, the country produced 3.5 million tons of poultry meat, with 2 million tons exported.
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Source: Gazeta Wyborcza/IAR/Radio Paznań/RMF FM