Key lawmakers from both parties are urging the USDA to advocate for changes in the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) definition of “poultry.” Led by Representatives Andrew Clyde (R-GA) and Sanford Bishop (D-GA), along with Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), the bipartisan, bicameral effort seeks to address the outdated definition which currently lumps all poultry together without distinguishing commercial birds from backyard or wild ones.
The current definition poses significant challenges for U.S. broiler exports, especially during outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Trading partners often impose bans on all poultry species, leading to substantial losses for American producers. For instance, China maintains bans on U.S. states with zero active outbreaks, causing Georgia’s poultry industry an estimated annual loss of $300 million due to isolated incidents.
The letter highlights the need for WOAH to adopt a new definition proposed by the United States Animal Health Association (USAHA), which would differentiate between commercial and non-commercial poultry. This change would mitigate trade disruptions and ensure a level playing field for American producers.
Notable signatures on the letter include Representatives Alma Adams (D-NC), Rick Allen (R-GA), and several others, along with Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Tom Carper (D-DE), and others. The effort is supported by various organizations including the National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation, and U.S. Poultry and Egg Association.
This bipartisan initiative aims to protect U.S. broiler exports and strengthen the competitiveness of American agriculture in the global market.
