On 6 February of this year, the European Commission adopted Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/278, introducing important amendments to Annexes XIV and XV of Regulation (EU) 2021/404. These changes concern the list of third countries authorised to export consignments of fresh poultry meat and poultry meat products to the European Union. As a result of this decision, the entire territory of the Republic of Moldova is now included among the countries authorised to export poultry meat products to the EU.

The National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) noted that these regulatory updates were made possible due to the Agency’s efforts in providing sufficient guarantees that, in the areas where fresh poultry meat and poultry meat products intended for export originate, no outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza have been recorded for at least 12 months.

Through this update, the Republic of Moldova strengthens its position within the EU system for authorising exports of products of animal origin, with the country’s public health and animal health standards being formally recognised. The measures adopted by the Commission reflect assessments of the epidemiological situation of animal‑borne diseases and align with EU policies aimed at ensuring food safety and consumer protection.

Moldova’s inclusion in the EU Regulation will facilitate producers’ access to the EU’s large consumer market and encourage continued alignment with EU regulations and standards in the fields of animal health and food safety.

“This decision confirms the European recognition of the national system for regionalisation and sanitary‑veterinary control and strengthens export opportunities for producers from the Republic of Moldova on the EU market, contributing to the development of the poultry sector and increasing the competitiveness of domestic products,” ANSA stated.