RRI.CO.ID, Riyadh - The Indonesian government will update the bird flu free status. This was in response to Saudi Arabia's ban on poultry and egg imports.

“This new Saudi policy is momentum for Indonesia to update its bird flu free status,” Indonesian Trade Attaché in Riyadh, Zulvri Yenni, stated in Trade Ministry's press release on Tuesday, 3 March 2026. She warned export market share could shift to competitors if updates are delayed.

According to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) report updated 28 January 2026, Indonesia has not regained bird flu free status. Zulvri said obtaining this status would positively impact reopening Saudi market access.

She added Saudi authorities will periodically review the import prohibition list. Evaluations follow global epidemiological developments, particularly highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks.

Zulvri also confirmed that the restriction is unrelated to halal certification matters. She emphasized the measure concerns compliance with health requirements and domestic quality standards.

On that matter, Indonesia’s halal certification has been recognized since a memorandum between Indonesia's halal certificate agency BPJPH and Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). The agreement was signed on 19 October 2023 and remains valid.

Indonesia is listed among forty countries facing total import prohibition starting 1 March 2026. Sixteen other countries are subject to partial restrictions in selected provinces and cities.

Processed poultry products may still enter if heat treated sufficiently to eliminate Newcastle virus. Such exports must be supported by official health certificates recognized by Saudi regulators.