A total of 50 poultry farms located in Huila have been fined by the Colombian Agricultural Institute (ICA). This is because they failed to submit their compliance plans for gradual adoption of biosecurity standards which should be implemented in all commercial poultry flocks operating in the country, according to La Nacion.

These measures are intended to prevent entry or spread of pathogens causing diseases such as avian influenza, Newcastle disease, salmonellosis, among others, to poultry farms, which can result in economic loss and harm access of poultry production in the country to international markets.

Paula Andrea Garcia Castaneda, head of poultry health projects at ICA confirmed that in Huila only 70 per cent of poultry farms have been compliant and entered their biosecurity plans in November, the month in which the deadline was established by the Government.

According to the ICA, Huila's poultry activity has grown considerably in recent years.

ICA also said that poultry farmers who are subject to sanctions must pay fines ranging from two to 50 minimum monthly wages, according to the farmers' placement abilities.

Currently, ICA and Fenavi are advancing an intense program of farm visits with registered Gradual Compliance Plan, in order to conduct audits to verify compliance with the rules.

To purchase health certification, the producer must approach the nearest office of the ICA and file for a Gradual Implementation Plan of Measures on Biosafety.

Farms that already comply with the measure must request a visit to verify the plan before the ICA, who will assess the proper implementation of biosafety regulations and issue a health certificate which is valid for two years.

Last year the ICA in Neiva certified at 125 poultry farms in the 37 municipalities of Huila.

According to reports from the Huila Poultry Committee, currently, a total population of 1,930,000 birds, broilers and laying hens are produced.