Oman Bans Poultry Imports from Kerala Amid Veterinary Health Concerns

Oman has imposed a ban on poultry imports from India’s Kerala state following veterinary health concerns, according to the Times of Oman. The ban is expected to impact India’s poultry industry significantly, as Oman is a major market for Indian chicken exports. In the 2023–24 fiscal year, India’s poultry exports reached a record $184.58 million, with Oman and Sri Lanka being key destinations.

Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources issued a ministerial decision prohibiting the import of live birds, poultry products, derivatives, and waste from Kerala. This follows a veterinary assessment identifying potential health risks in the state. The ban will remain in effect until authorities confirm that the risks have been eliminated and an official decision lifts the restrictions.

The ministry clarified that the ban does not apply to poultry products that have undergone proper treatment or thermal processing in line with the World Organisation for Animal Health’s Terrestrial Animal Health Code. The measure is part of Oman’s strategy to protect both animal and public health by strengthening biosecurity and import controls, following international standards to prevent the spread of infectious diseases through trade. All relevant authorities have been instructed to enforce the ban to ensure compliance across the country.