​​​On 26 February 2021 Australia regained its previous animal health status for avian influenza following outbreaks in Victoria. The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (Department) is currently reviewing affected health certification for avian and ratite products (including meat, meat products, by-products, eggs in shell and processed eggs/ egg products) and assessing whether certification can be reinstated. The Department is actively approaching overseas government authorities to request the removal of trade restrictions imposed due to the outbreak.

The Department will issue regular Market Access Advices (MAAs) to inform stakeholders of trade updates and the status of export certification.

For current certification and country specific trade information, exporters are advised to refer to the following MAAs (Further MAAs will be published as information is received):

• MAA 2117 – Avian influenza: Updates for trade to Kuwait, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, the United States of America, Vanuatu and Vietnam (issued on 31 March 2021)
• MAA2120 – Avian influenza: Updates for trade to Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Tonga and South Africa (issued on 16 April 2021)

For the latest information on other markets and commodities that continue to be affected by trade restrictions due to avian influenza, we refer you to the relevant appended tables of the latest MAA2120.

For all enquiries, or to obtain a copy of a Market Access Advice, email exportstandards@awe.gov.au

Considerations to be noted by exporters

Product eligibility

Exporters are advised that sourcing avian meat and avian products (including by-products) for export must meet importing country requirements relating to hatching and/or processing dates. This may include restrictions on exporting avian meat or avian products (including by-products) which were processed prior to Australia regaining its previous animal health status for avian influenza, or other specified requirements. Exporters are reminded that it is an offence to provide false or misleading information to the Australian Government.

Exporter declarations

Exporters need to ensure that the appropriate exporter declaration (as advised in the above mentioned MAAs) continues to be applied when raising health certification for avian meat and avian products. Exporters are reminded that it is an offence to provide false or misleading information to the Australian Government.

Normalisation of trade

Exporters should be aware that trade may not have recommenced immediately for all markets, and depending on specific certification and importing country requirements, extended delays may occur for some markets. Exporters are advised to continue working closely with their importers to ensure their product meets current importing requirements to manage potential commercial risk.