Saudi Arabia bans poultry, egg imports from India, 39 countries over bird flu

Last Updated:February 25, 2026, 17:34 IST

The ban covers imports from countries such as Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Iran, the United Kingdom, and India, among others.

Saudi Arabia has imposed a total ban on poultry and table egg imports from 40 countries, including India, as part of precautionary measures against bird flu and other animal diseases. The move was announced by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) in its latest update.

The ban covers imports from countries such as Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Iran, the United Kingdom, and India, among others.

In addition, partial restrictions have been imposed on certain regions of 16 other countries, including the United States, Australia, France, the Philippines, and Canada. These restrictions apply only to specific states or cities rather than the entire country.

According to a report by The Times of India, the SFDA said the decision aims to protect public health and ensure food safety in the local market. It added that the list of banned countries is regularly reviewed in line with global disease developments.

Some bans have been in place since 2004, while others were introduced gradually based on risk assessments and international reports of highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks.

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Authorities clarified that the ban does not apply to poultry and related products that have undergone heat treatment or other approved processing methods to eliminate viruses. Such products must meet all health requirements, carry official certification from the exporting country, and originate from approved facilities.

Saudi Arabia’s latest restrictions come amid global concerns over bird flu, prompting stricter monitoring of imports and updated regulations. Indian exporters and trade authorities are expected to review shipments to ensure compliance with the new rules.

The SFDA emphasised that these measures are part of ongoing efforts to maintain food safety standards and monitor the global epidemiological situation closely.

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