Concerns over avian influenza mutations led to the mandated campaign, despite the US poultry ban.
Over 60 million birds must be vaccinated annually at a cost of €96 million, with the state funding 85% of the expense.
The ravages caused to its flocks and fear that the virus could mutate into one transmissible to humans prompted the government to launch a mandatory vaccination campaign, making it the first poultry exporting country to do so. In total, over 60 million ducks will have to be vaccinated over a year for a total cost of €96 million , of which 85% will be financed by the state, duck and fois gras makers group CIFOG said in a statement welcoming the move.
The United States triggered restrictions on imports of French poultry beginning Oct 1, citing a risk of introducing the virus into the country.