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Canada Imposes Import Restrictions on Chile Poultry After New HPAI Outbreak

Trade Update • March 31, 2026

Key Points

  • Canada updates import controls following a confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak in Chile.
  • Poultry, birds (including pet birds), and specified poultry products from Chile’s restricted zone are now banned from entering Canada.
  • Import of poultry products from Chile outside the restricted zone continues under current protocols.
  • Restrictions align with Canada’s recognition list for countries free from HPAI and its outbreak response policy.
  • Stakeholders should reference Canada’s official HPAI status list for ongoing import eligibility updates.
Intertwined flags of Canada and Chile with poultry animals on the foreground representing updated poultry import restrictions following a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak in Chile.

C​anada updated its import requirements after detecting a new highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) outbreak in Chile. The changes bar imports of poultry, pet birds, and certain poultry products from the Chilean restricted zone. Products originating outside that zone remain admissible under standard import rules. These adjustments reflect Canada’s framework for importing live birds and avian products from countries or zones recognized as free from HPAI. Importers should monitor the official status list to ensure compliance with evolving restrictions and eligible regions.

HPAI Restrictions

What’s Restricted?

  • Applies to poultry, birds (including pet birds), and defined poultry products coming from the Chilean restricted zone.
  • Items from outside the restricted zone in Chile may enter Canada under usual import conditions.

Canada’s Policy

Canada maintains an official list of countries and zones recognized as free of HPAI.

  • Imports of live animals, germplasm, hatching eggs, and unprocessed/raw animal products from susceptible species are prohibited if the source originates from countries or zones not recognized as HPAI-free.
  • Pet bird imports from countries or zones not listed as free may be allowed under specific conditions.

Trade Implications

  • Exporters shipping poultry or bird products to Canada must verify the origin falls outside restricted zones in Chile.
  • Shipments from restricted zones will face refusal on entry.
  • Ongoing outbreaks in other jurisdictions (EU, United States, United Kingdom) maintain similar import limitations.

Importers should consult Canada’s listing of countries and zones recognized as free of highly pathogenic avian influenza for up-to-date status before exporting to Canada.

How GHY Can Help?

GHY specializes in helping businesses navigate and reduce the impacts of tariffs through strategic solutions tailored to their needs. Our experts can audit your supply chain to identify inefficiencies, uncover cost-saving opportunities, and ensure compliance with evolving trade regulations. We also employ tariff engineering techniques to optimize product classification and sourcing strategies, minimizing duty exposure and maximizing profitability.

By partnering with GHY, your business gains access to the tools and expertise needed to streamline operations and stay competitive in a challenging trade environment.

Contact Us Today! Booking a Meeting, email consult@ghy.com, or call +1 (800) 667-0771.

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