Portugal’s poultry export restrictions to Japan have been lifted after Japan confirmed Portugal’s status as free of highly pathogenic avian influenza, making Portugal an eligible zone for exporting poultry and poultry products.

The DGAV notes this move acknowledges Portugal’s robust national animal health surveillance, prevention, and control systems, along with the efforts of veterinary services and industry operators.

Portugal had already regained GAAP-free status in May after applying control and eradication measures for previous outbreaks.

The reopening of the Japanese market is expected to bolster international confidence and add value to Portugal’s agrifood establishments.

Japan’s confirmations from the Health, Labour and Welfare and Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries ministries that Portugal meets sanitary export conditions underpin the decision.