Saudi Arabia Bars Poultry, Eggs from Nigeria, 39 Other Countries Over Health Risks

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has imposed a ban on the importation of poultry and table eggs from 40 countries, including Nigeria, citing public health and food safety concerns. The move also includes partial restrictions on select regions in 16 other nations.

According to SFDA, the list of affected countries is regularly reviewed in line with global health trends and epidemiological reports. Some bans have been in place since 2004, while others were implemented progressively following risk assessments and international reports of animal diseases, particularly outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza.

The full ban now affects countries such as Afghanistan, Germany, Indonesia, Iran, Nigeria, China, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Japan, among others. Partial restrictions apply to specific cities or states in nations including the United States, Australia, Italy, Belgium, France, Canada, and Malaysia.

SFDA emphasized that the temporary ban does not apply to heat-treated poultry meat and related products, provided they meet approved health and safety standards.

The authority stated, “These measures are precautionary and aim to safeguard public health while ensuring the quality and safety of food in the Kingdom.”