Egypt monitoring poultry farms closely as industry remains stable

EGYPT – Egypt’s Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation has said the country’s poultry industry remains stable, with no signs of abnormal bird deaths and health checks continuing in various governorates.

The statement comes in response to rising concerns in several regions over poultry health and food safety, prompting the government to reassure the public and stakeholders.

Officials confirmed that the General Authority for Veterinary Services is monitoring poultry farms closely, working alongside the Livestock and Poultry Development Sector to inspect facilities and provide technical support.

According to Dr. Hamed el-Aqnas, who leads the General Authority for Veterinary Services, field teams are visiting farms regularly, engaging with breeders, and keeping watch for any early signs of disease.

He added that all vaccines required to prevent poultry illnesses are available through the Veterinary Serum and Vaccine Research Institute, as well as through local veterinary clinics across the country.

Dr. el-Aqnas clarified that there are no shortages of vaccines, and response teams are ready to act quickly if any irregularities are reported by farm operators.

Farmers and poultry breeders are being encouraged to report any unusual deaths or health issues directly to the nearest veterinary offices for immediate investigation.

The Ministry said that these actions are part of wider efforts to ensure early detection of diseases, maintain healthy flocks, and protect national food supplies.

Production and Export Trends

Dr. Tarek Suleiman, head of the Livestock and Poultry Development Sector, said that surveillance data is being collected continuously from all 27 governorates using real-time monitoring systems.

He noted that the poultry sector currently employs around 3.5 million people and has attracted investments amounting to approximately US$4.2 billion (EGP 200 billion).

Dr. Suleiman also highlighted that Egypt has achieved self-sufficiency in poultry production and is now exporting surplus items such as broiler chicks, hatching eggs, and table eggs to international markets.

The country’s compliance with international animal health standards has led to the establishment of disease-free poultry zones recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health.

This international recognition has opened up new opportunities for Egypt’s poultry exports and strengthened its position in the global market.

About 80% of the country’s poultry output comes from small-scale breeders, with larger companies contributing the remaining 20%, according to government estimates.

Efforts are underway to help small breeders shift from open-air systems to enclosed farming setups, with the government offering financial and technical assistance to support the transition.

In a related development, Mahmoud el-Anany, who chairs the General Union of Poultry Producers, said the mortality rate in poultry farms remains below 4%, with no signs of a major health crisis.

He explained that these mortality levels, along with consistent production rates, indicate the industry is operating normally and without any widespread disease threats.

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