The first consignment of 1,200 chilled geese and 600 chilled ducks imported from the Mainland since the suspension of poultry meat on January 30 have passed tests for avian influenza.

The Food & Environmental Hygiene Department said samples were collected from the consignment upon arrival at Man Kam To for rapid screening. Lab results confirmed tonight that all the samples were negative for the virus, and the poultry has been released for sale.

The department started processing applications for frozen and chilled poultry imports in March. Imports resumed today after Mainland authorities were satisfied with control measures taken by farms and plants to prevent avian influenza.

Frozen duck imports resumed on April 29.