Spain's Swine Fever Alert: Rising Threats to Pork Exports

Spain reports its first African swine fever cases since 1994, threatening pork exports, especially to China. A recent agreement could contain the impact to affected regions. Spain leads EU pork production, with emergency measures activated in the infected area. The virus spreads west in Europe, affecting pig industries.

Spain is grappling with its first African swine fever cases since 1994, after two wild boars near Barcelona tested positive for the virus, the Agriculture Ministry announced.

The outbreak could pose a threat to Spain's lucrative pork exports, particularly to China. However, a recent agreement with Beijing might limit restrictions only to the infected regions, potentially mitigating the impact.

As the EU's top pork producer, Spain has mobilized emergency measures in the affected area and informed the European Union. The virus, safe for humans but lethal for pigs, is spreading westward across Europe, disrupting pig industries in its path.

(With inputs from agencies.)