Agriculture ministry bans import of live birds from India’s Kerala state

Muscat: The Ministry of Agricultural, Fisheries and Water Resources has issued a ministerial decision prohibiting the import of live birds and related products from the State of Kerala in the Republic of India until further notice.

Ministerial Decision No. 13/2026 was issued based on the Veterinary Quarantine Law promulgated by Royal Decree No. 45/2004 and its executive regulations, as well as a recommendation from the competent veterinary authority, in line with public interest requirements.

Under the decision, the ban covers live birds, their products, derivatives, and byproducts originating from Kerala. However, the restriction excludes products, derivatives, and waste materials that have been heat-treated or processed in accordance with the Land Animal Health Code issued by the World Organisation for Animal Health.

The ministry stated that the ban will remain in place until the reasons behind it have ceased and a subsequent decision is issued to lift the restriction.

The decision directs all relevant authorities to implement the measures within their respective areas of competence. It will be published in the Official Gazette and will come into force on the day following its publication.

The decision was issued on January 11, 2026, corresponding to 1 Rajab 1447 AH, and was signed by Dr Saud bin Hamoud bin Ahmed Al-Habsi, Minister of Agricultural, Fisheries and Water Resources.