Swine Fever Outbreak Blocks Spanish Pork Exports

A swine fever outbreak in Spain has led to the blocking of one-third of Spanish pork export certificates. Detected in wild boar near Barcelona, the virus's discovery impacts the European Union markets and others. Measures are being taken to manage the situation and reopen blocked certificates.

Spain has encountered its first swine fever outbreak in nearly 30 years, causing significant disruptions in its pork exports. Agriculture Minister Luis Planas announced that one-third of the country's export certificates are currently blocked as a result of the virus found in wild boar near Barcelona.

The outbreak, first recorded since 1994, poses health risks to pigs but not humans. While the European Union's pork imports remain largely unaffected, shipments from areas within a 20-kilometre radius of the outbreak are restricted. Taiwanese and Chinese authorities have also enacted bans.

Catalonia has taken precautionary measures, closing the Collserola park and limiting outdoor activities in 60 nearby villages. Wildlife traps and police barriers are being set up. Meanwhile, Planas emphasized efforts to maintain open international trade channels in light of restricted shipments.

(With inputs from agencies.)