An HPAI outbreak in Georgia, the nation’s largest chicken producer, could result in significant trade restrictions and financial losses for farmers and processors.
A commercial flock of more than 45,000 chickens tested positive for the virus, making Georgia’s first case in a large-scale operation.
Countries including Mexico, Taiwan, and South Korea are expected to impose bans on Georgia’s poultry, potentially disrupting exports for weeks or months.
According to the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council, initial losses are estimated at $34 million.
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