Hong Kong Friday suspended processing of applications for the importation of poultry meat from Denmark for fear of bird flu outbreak.

 

The city's Food and Environmental Hygiene Department made the announcement on Friday and declared its immediate effectiveness.

 

"The decision was taken following the confirmation of an outbreak of avian influenza H5N1 in a poultry farm in Denmark," said a spokesman for the department.

 

"We are seeking further information from the relevant authorities concerning the case," he said.

 

Hong Kong imported some 2,000 tons of poultry meat from Denmark in 2005.

 

(Xinhua News Agency May 20, 2006)