Taiwan Issues Urgent Warning Following African Swine Fever Detection in Spain

Post by : Raina Nasser

Taiwan has issued an urgent warning advising the public against sending pork products from Spain after African swine fever (ASF) was detected in the nation. This alert is part of Taiwan's comprehensive measures to shield its pig farming industry from the rapidly spreading disease.

Authorities have introduced significant fines for anyone found smuggling pork items from other countries. First-time violators could incur a penalty of NT$200,000 (approximately US$6,400), escalating to NT$1 million for repeat offenders. Importing pork via express or freight services could lead to imprisonment for up to seven years, alongside a hefty fine of NT$3 million.

Recently, Spain reported two wild boars discovered dead near Barcelona that tested positive for ASF, breaking a 30-year absence of the virus in the country. Despite the absence of direct flights connecting Spain and Taiwan, direct mail services are operational, prompting concerns about potential transmission via international shipments, as reported by local outlets.

In light of the new outbreaks, Taiwan’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency has officially added Spain to its list of countries affected by ASF in the past three years. Consequently, imports of live pigs and pork from Spain—both by air and sea—have been prohibited starting Saturday. Any illegal pork goods entering Taiwan will be disposed of or returned promptly.

Taiwan is a significant market for pork imports, standing second only to Canada. The island nation imported 25,452 tonnes of pork in 2023 and 16,019 tonnes in 2024. In response to the escalating threats, authorities have pledged to heighten border inspections to halt any illicit pork from entering Taiwan.

Having recently contained an outbreak in Taichung, Taiwan aims to re-establish its official ASF-free status in the upcoming year. Permitting pork imports from Spain, where ASF has recently resurfaced, could jeopardize this objective, officials cautioned.