BEIJING: China has once again halted poultry imports from Argentina, effective August 20, just five months after lifting a two-year ban, according to a notice posted on the country’s customs website.
The announcement did not provide details on the reasons behind the suspension or how long it will remain in effect. Chinese customs authorities have not yet responded to requests for comment.
The move follows Beijing’s recent bans on poultry and related products from Brazil—its largest supplier—since May, and from Spain earlier this month, with officials citing bird flu outbreaks in both nations.
Argentina had previously faced a two-year ban after the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in its commercial poultry sector.
Analysts say the suspension may give a short-term boost to poultry prices, as major suppliers face restrictions. However, the overall impact is expected to remain limited due to China’s surplus of poultry meat and the ongoing financial challenges faced by its domestic industry.
China’s poultry imports primarily include chicken feet, wings, and bone-in cuts. Between January and July 2025, the country imported 226,013 metric tons, marking a 2% decline compared to the same period last year, customs data shows.
Industry experts view the decision as another sign of the shifting dynamics in global poultry trade, where avian influenza outbreaks continue to disrupt supply chains and international markets.
