February 5, 2004
Revoked October 25, 2005

Subject: Import Ban on Birds from Southeast Asia

Background: Prompted by outbreaks of avian flu (H5N1 subtype), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a ban on the importation of birds from eight Southeast Asian countries.

The ban, which is effective immediately, is designed to protect poultry and humans in the United States from the possible spread of avian influenza. This disease has already been responsible for the deaths of millions of birds and at least 13 humans in Southeast Asia.

As one of the agencies authorized to regulate the import and export of wildlife and wildlife products, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will assist in enforcing this ban.

Action: This ban applies to birds and bird products from the following countries: Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, the People's Republic of China (including Hong Kong), South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam. It will remain in effect until further notice.

Pet and performing birds of U.S. origin returning from Southeast Asia will be allowed entry into the United States with a permit and after completing a 30-day quarantine period in a USDA facility. The USDA previously allowed such birds to be quarantined at home.

The temporary import ban and pet bird requirements will be reviewed as more information on the situation in Southeast Asia becomes available. For additional information, call the APHIS National Center for Import and Export at (301) 734-3277 or visit http://www.aphis.usda.gov and click on "Hot Issues."

Contact:
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Office of Law Enforcement
703-358-1949 703-358-2271 (fax)