What Changed
- CFS instructed trade to suspend poultry meat, product, and egg imports from North Lincolnshire with immediate effect.
- Import ban was prompted by a WOAH notification of a highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza outbreak in the region.
- CFS contacted British authorities and will monitor WOAH notifications for further developments.
Food importers, international traders, and logistics operators handling agricultural products between the United Kingdom and Hong Kong SAR face immediate regulatory adjustments. On November 10, 2026, the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department in Hong Kong instructed the trade to suspend imports of poultry meat and products, including poultry eggs, from North Lincolnshire of Lincolnshire County in the UK with immediate effect.
The regulatory measure was implemented following an official notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) reporting an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in North Lincolnshire. According to a CFS spokesman, the suspension was ordered to safeguard public health in Hong Kong.
Official trade figures from Hong Kong's Census and Statistics Department show that Hong Kong imported approximately 680 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat and about 220,000 poultry eggs from the UK during the first nine months of 2026. The targeted suspension affects local food traders relying on poultry supply chains originating from the specified area in Lincolnshire County.
In response to the situation, the CFS has established contact with British authorities regarding the issue. The CFS stated that it will closely monitor information and reports issued by the WOAH and relevant government bodies, and will take appropriate follow-up action as developments unfold.
Who May Be Affected
Food traders, poultry importers, logistics providers, and food businesses engaged in poultry trade between the UK and Hong Kong SAR.
Cross-Border Context
Reflects import restrictions imposed by Hong Kong SAR regulatory authorities on agricultural products originating from North Lincolnshire in the United Kingdom.
What to check next
- Check subsequent press releases from Hong Kong's Centre for Food Safety (CFS) regarding potential updates to the import suspension.
- Monitor World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) reports concerning H5N1 avian influenza control in the United Kingdom.
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult the official text and obtain advice appropriate to your circumstances where needed.