Mainland chilled poultry imports are expected to resume this month, Director of Food & Environmental Hygiene Gregory Leung says.

Speaking on a radio talk show this morning, Mr Leung said the department has sent officers to Guangdong to observe the operation of the chilled poultry factories there and will brief legislators on the situation this Wednesday.

He will meet trade representatives on Monday to see how the Government can help solve their problems. Offering low interest loans is one possible solution.

On the smuggling activities of Mainland chilled poultry, Mr Leung said the Government will step up its enforcement actions, including enhancing vehicle checks in border areas and stepping up inspections at chilled poultry retail shops and restaurants.

He said that the Government needs to continue observing the development of avian flu outbreak in the region and study the situation carefully before making a final decision in the resumption of importation of live poultry from the Mainland.

As live poultry usually stays in our markets for three days before being bought and slaughtered, there will be some risk of spreading avian flu virus in the community.

The Government will study Macau's experience in resuming Mainland live poultry imports, Mr Leung said.

Noting the poultry trade's present mode of operation is no longer sustainable, Mr Leung said the Government will launch a consultation on the issue as soon as possible.