AVIAN FLU: GREEK POULTRY INDUSTRY UPDATE

UNCLAS ATHENS 003094 SIPDIS PASS TO CELESTE CONNORS, EUR/PGI E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ETRD EAGR AVIANFLU SUBJECT: AVIAN FLU: GREEK POULTRY INDUSTRY UPDATE REF: A. STATE 216147 ¶B. ATHENS 002748 1.(U) In response to inquiries referenced in Reftel A, GoG currently has Avian Influenza based poultry import bans on Bulgaria, Romania and Turkish poultry products. This ban includes, but is not limited to, meat, eggs, and uncooked processed foods. In addition, GoG also bans poultry imports and its derivatives from Macedonia and Albania in response to recent outbreaks of Newcastle disease in both the countries. All bans will remain in place until the MOA determines a significant change in the poultry market of the host country. The Greek Poultry industry produces about 180,000 metric tons of meat per annum, with a value of 350 million euros. Greece is a net poultry importer and 20 percent of Greek poultry is imported from the EU (EU 15) and Brazil, so domestic supplies have not been adversely effected by the bans ¶2. (U) After a premature announcement of Avian Influenza in October, Greek poultry production plummeted 60 percent within a few days. Currently, production has returned to normal levels. It is important to note that the sudden drop in consumer demand increased local supplies of frozen meat due to the strict 16 week slaughter cycle of the poultry sector. (Note: Time from incubation to maturity in Greece is 16 weeks, at wich time the 16 week birds must be slaughtered in order to accommodate the next iteration of 15 week birds. Failure to adhere to the schedule places significant logistical and continuity constraints on the production process. End Note) ¶3. (U) While regional preventive culling of suspected Avian Influenza infected flocks in Romania, Bulgaria and Turkey continues, the GoG has maintained relative calm regarding the any Avian activity in Greece. After the initial aprehension and public outcry over October's false positive test,(Reftel B) the GoG, media and the population in general are maintaining a pragmatic, if not indifferent approach to a potential outbreak within the borders of Greece. Post will continue to monitor the GoG and regional response to the Avian Influenza and the poultry industry. RIES