Saudi Arabia has placed a temporary ban on importing live poultry and table eggs from France and Poland. This decision follows serious outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and Newcastle disease (ND) in these countries. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) announced the ban after an urgent advisory from the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). The ban covers live birds, table eggs, and poultry or egg products that have not been heated enough to kill the viruses. However, poultry meat, eggs, and processed products that have undergone proper heat treatment and meet safety standards will still be allowed. The SFDA requires health certificates from France or Poland for exempted products. These certificates must confirm the products are free of viruses or that the viruses have been eradicated. France and Poland are currently battling large outbreaks of HPAI and Newcastle disease among wild and farm birds. Authorities in these countries have culled many infected birds and imposed strict controls. The outbreaks are ongoing as of January 2026. Saudi Arabia’s move is a proactive step to protect its public health and local poultry industry from these dangerous diseases. By enforcing this ban and requiring certified safe products, Saudi Arabia aims to prevent any risk of infection entering the country.