Moldova halts imports of Ukrainian poultry

The temporary suspension of poultry meat imports from a single country does not necessarily mean a shortage on the market. Economic operators could diversify import sources, while domestic producers could capitalize on existing demand by expanding production capacity.

This position was expressed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA) after the National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) announced today the temporary suspension of poultry meat imports from Ukraine, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES.

According to MAIA, annual poultry meat consumption in the Republic of Moldova is estimated at around 91,000 tonnes, of which approximately 64,000 tonnes are supplied by domestic production. The difference is covered by imports, and in recent years about 76% of imported volumes have come from Ukraine.

At the same time, MAIA emphasized that economic operators could diversify import sources, and domestic producers could meet existing demand by expanding production capacities.

“The temporary suspension of imports from a single country does not necessarily mean a market shortage. Economic operators could diversify import sources. At the same time, this situation may serve as an incentive for domestic producers, who can meet existing demand by expanding production capacities,” MAIA’s press service told.

MAIA also stressed that it is premature to make estimates regarding a possible impact on prices.

“Their evolution depends on several factors, including the market’s ability to adapt through import diversification and increased domestic production,” the ministry said.

In addition, MAIA noted that in the poultry sector, the production cycle is relatively short, about 35 days. Therefore, domestic production can be adjusted within a relatively short period to cover market needs.

The National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) announced today the temporary suspension of imports of poultry meat and poultry-derived products originating from Ukraine. The agency said the decision was based on the results of complex investigations conducted after the detection of the banned substance metronidazole in batches of animal feed previously imported from the neighboring country.

According to ANSA, the measure was adopted based on the precautionary principle, in order to protect consumer health in the Republic of Moldova and to ensure that only safe and harmless food products are placed on the market.

The suspension will remain in force until the competent authority in Ukraine provides credible guarantees, in line with national standards, regarding the control of prohibited substances, product traceability, and the effective functioning of official controls.