EU to release US$15.2M to poultry farms in Poland hit by avian flu

POLAND – Polish poultry farms hit by avian influenza will receive financial compensation from the European Union following a decision by the European Commission to release emergency funds.

A total of 193 outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza were confirmed in Poland between August 9, 2021, and August 3, 2023, resulting in severe disruptions to poultry production.

The outbreaks affected chickens, laying hens, turkeys, ducks, and geese, leading to losses in hatching eggs, table eggs, live birds, and poultry meat.

Farms within restricted zones also faced economic setbacks due to eggs and meat that had to be destroyed or downgraded as a result of veterinary measures.

In response, the Commission has approved US$15.2 million (€14,059,607) from the agricultural reserve to reimburse Poland for half the amount spent on supporting affected farmers.

This compensation will only be available to farms located in the officially regulated zones and directly impacted by the disease control efforts during the outbreak period.

To avoid duplication of public funding, any losses already covered by state aid or private insurance will not qualify for reimbursement under this scheme.

Polish authorities have until February 28, 2026, to disburse the funds to eligible farmers.

EU Member States endorsed the financial support measure and will take effect after its publication in the EU’s Official Journal.

The implementing regulation is expected to be published and enforced in early August, allowing the compensation process to move forward.

Background and scope

The outbreaks over the two-year span made Poland one of the hardest-hit countries in the region during this period.

In accordance with EU animal health rules, the country carried out control measures including surveillance, movement restrictions, and culling, which led to significant production losses.

Following Poland’s formal request, the Commission calculated the compensation package based on fixed rates per egg and per animal affected.

The funding is intended to help cover losses strictly related to mandatory disease containment, not to replace income or insure future risk.

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