Georgia's poultry industry just got the green light it was waiting for. State agriculture officials say the state has officially regained bird flu–free status, clearing the way for poultry exports to resume to international buyers after restrictions tied to recent outbreaks earlier this winter. The designation is expected to ease some of the market pressure that followed quarantines and depopulation at affected farms.
Commissioner Tyler J. Harper confirmed the development in a press release from the Georgia Department of Agriculture, which said the World Organisation for Animal Health has recognized the state's HPAI-free designation and that poultry products can again be exported internationally. The release also made a point of saying that HPAI-free status is not an "all clear" and urged flock owners to keep strict biosecurity measures in place.
State officials said the decision follows several recent outbreaks, including confirmed cases in Walker and Hart counties, and seven detections in commercial poultry or waterfowl operations since the nationwide outbreak began in 2022, as reported by FOX 5 Atlanta. Control areas, depopulation and enhanced surveillance were used to contain the affected premises, according to officials.
What It Means For Producers
Resuming exports reopens markets that were closed during control-area restrictions, a welcome development for Georgia's large broiler and egg sectors. The Georgia Department of Agriculture said the return to international trade "is expected to provide a boost to producers statewide," and Commissioner Harper highlighted the agency's rapid response to recent detections as part of keeping that trade moving.
Food Safety And Markets
Officials emphasized there is no threat to the food supply and that birds removed during the responses never entered the consumer chain, a point underscored by the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Federal and state veterinarians said they will continue surveillance and urged producers to stick to "gold standard" biosecurity to prevent future flare‑ups.
Reopening trade will not happen instantly, since partner countries still have to accept official health certifications and permits, but state leaders say Georgia now has the certification it needs to push for market access. For now, the Georgia Department of Agriculture says surveillance will continue and producers should remain vigilant to keep the state clear of new infections.
