Saudi Arabia Bans Poultry Imports from Nigeria Over Health

Saudi Arabia's Food and Drug Authority has announced a ban on the importation of poultry and eggs from Nigeria and 39 other countries, citing health concerns. This decision is part of a broader effort to safeguard public health and ensure food safety in the domestic market.

The list of affected countries is subject to regular review in line with global health developments and epidemiological updates. The ban, which was last revised in 2004, is based on a risk assessment of international reports regarding animal diseases, particularly outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza.

Countries facing a full ban include Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Germany, Indonesia, and Iran, while partial restrictions apply to specific states and cities in Australia, the United States, Italy, Belgium, and others. The authority clarified that the temporary ban does not apply to heat-treated poultry meat and related products that comply with approved health safety standards.