Taiwan reports African swine fever at pig farm

台灣一養豬場疑似爆出非洲豬瘟

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — African swine fever has been detected at a Taichung pig farm, prompting the Ministry of Agriculture to cull pigs and impose a nationwide ban on transport and slaughter, per CNA.

Agriculture Minister Chen Chun-ji (陳駿季) said pigs that died at the farm tested positive for the virus. A total of 195 pigs have been culled, and authorities have launched an investigation to trace any spread.

African swine fever is classified as a Category A animal infectious disease in Taiwan. The acute form in pigs has a 100% fatality rate.

Although the disease does not infect humans, there is no vaccine. Infected pigs must be culled, buried, or rendered to prevent further spread, posing a serious threat to the industry.

The ministry outlined several emergency measures. A forward command post was established in Taichung, staffed by Deputy Agriculture Minister Tu Wen-jane (杜文珍).

Starting at 12 p.m., a nationwide five-day ban on pig transport and slaughter will take effect, with a possible extension. The use of food waste to feed pigs is also banned, and all meat markets will carry out thorough cleaning and disinfection of farms and transport vehicles.

Pigs already transported to markets or slaughterhouses before the ban took effect will be allowed to enter. During the ban, only live pigs may be accepted, and pre- and post-slaughter inspections will be strengthened.

Nationwide pig-farm health surveys will monitor animal health. Production and supply adjustments will also be implemented to stabilize pork availability.