The International Poultry Council (IPC) today announced the release of its 2026 Avian Influenza Preparedness Framework, a members-only resource designed to strengthen industry readiness, coordination, and confidence across the global poultry value chain.
Presented at IPC’s Annual Meeting in Atlanta, the framework reflects IPC’s leadership and responsibility in addressing one of the most complex and persistent issues facing the poultry sector worldwide. Avian Influenza represents an evolving threat not only to animal health, but also to global food security, trade stability, and public confidence. IPC’s role is to help ensure that the global industry is aligned, informed, and prepared to respond responsibly.
“Avian Influenza is a serious and evolving threat to global food security,” said Richard Griffiths, President of the International Poultry Council. “It does not matter where in the world you are or which part of the poultry value chain you represent — addressing this issue requires coordination, shared understanding, and collective responsibility. Through this framework, IPC is leading the way in strengthening preparedness and confidence across our global industry.”
Developed with Avian Influenza specifically in mind, the framework is intentionally designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing it to be applied across different regions, production systems, and regulatory environments. While outbreak management remains the responsibility of national authorities, the framework provides a common reference point for collaboration, communication, and alignment at the international level.
Key elements of the framework include:
- A structured approach to monitoring and assessing Avian Influenza developments
- Clear criteria for activating IPC’s internal coordination mechanisms
- A communications framework aligned with international organizations, including WOAH, FAO, and WHO
- Practical tools and templates to support consistent, science-based stakeholder communications
Rather than prescribing actions, the framework supports cooperation and information-sharing, helping ensure that the poultry sector responds to Avian Influenza challenges in a coordinated and credible manner.
“With this framework, IPC is reinforcing its leadership role as a global convener and voice for the poultry sector,” Griffiths added. “Our objective is to ensure that the industry is prepared, aligned, and confident. And that decisions are guided by science, collaboration, and responsibility.”
The 2026 Avian Influenza Preparedness Framework is available exclusively to IPC members.
