MINNEAPOLIS — China has lifted a ban on Minnesota poultry imports that was imposed last year following an outbreak of avian flu.

China had been the state’s No. 2 international market before the ban was imposed last November. Mexico is No. 1.

Steve Olson is the executive director of the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association and the state Chicken and Egg Association. He said this week’s announcement is great news that makes Christmas a little merrier.

A Chinese agency imposed the ban after the H7 avian flu virus was found in two turkey flocks in Wright County last year.

Olson said there’s a good chance Minnesota producers can regain whatever market share the ban cost them.

Since 2003 China has had 28 deaths from bird flu.