Saudi Arabia has imposed a ban on poultry meat and table egg imports from Ghana as part of a broader regulatory action affecting 40 countries worldwide. The restriction was announced by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), which said the measure is intended to protect public health and strengthen food safety standards within the kingdom.
According to the SFDA, the ban forms part of ongoing risk-management measures linked to global animal disease surveillance, particularly outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and other poultry-related diseases. The updated directive lists Ghana among countries facing a full restriction on poultry exports to Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi regulator explained that the list of affected countries is subject to periodic review, depending on global epidemiological developments and updated international health reports. This means the restriction could be reassessed if conditions improve and exporting countries meet the required sanitary standards.
However, the authority clarified that certain poultry products may still enter the Saudi market if they undergo approved heat treatment or processing capable of eliminating disease risks. Such products must also be accompanied by official health certification from relevant authorities in the exporting country.
Industry observers say the development highlights the need for stronger biosecurity systems and export compliance measures in Ghana’s poultry sector to maintain access to international markets.
by Tanko A. Ibrahim
Source: Saudi Poultry Magazine
Reporter: Saudi Poultry Editorial Desk
