,"The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary suspension on the import of poultry meat, eggs, and related products from the Małopolskie region of Poland following a confirmed outbreak of Newcastle disease, according to a report issued by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) dated 23 December 2025.
The decision was taken in accordance with the WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code, Chapter 10.9, which outlines international measures for the prevention and control of Newcastle disease. Saudi authorities stated that the suspension is a precautionary measure aimed at preventing the introduction of the virus into the Kingdom and protecting domestic poultry health and food security.
Newcastle disease is a highly contagious viral disease affecting birds, particularly poultry, and can result in severe economic losses if introduced into poultry populations.
Scope of the Import Suspension
The temporary ban applies to:
Poultry meat
Eggs
Poultry and egg products
originating from Małopolskie, Poland.
Exemptions
The suspension does not apply to:
Processed poultry meat and egg products that have been subjected to heat treatment or other approved processes proven to deactivate the Newcastle virus
To qualify for exemption, such products must:
Fully comply with approved Saudi health requirements and standards
Be accompanied by an official health certificate issued by Polish authorities
Clearly certify that the product is free from Newcastle disease
Reason for the Measure
Saudi authorities emphasized that the action is necessary to safeguard animal health and align with international animal health regulations established by the WOAH. Preventive import controls are a standard response following confirmed outbreaks of notifiable animal diseases.
Next Steps
The suspension will remain in effect until further notice, pending updates on the disease situation in Poland and official confirmation that the outbreak has been contained in line with international standards.
Saudi Arabia continues to monitor developments closely and has reiterated its commitment to international animal health regulations and biosecurity measures to protect both local livestock and consumers."
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