Chinese customs authorities have announced a temporary suspension of pork imports from twelve companies based in the province of Barcelona. The decision follows the detection of African swine fever in wild boars in the region. On the official platform, these companies are now listed as having an “import suspension” status. For Spain, this is the first such case in the last three decades—the disease was considered completely eradicated, and for many years the country remained one of the largest pork suppliers to China.
According to updated data, the ban took effect last Friday, immediately after two cases of wild boar deaths from African swine fever were confirmed near Barcelona. Chinese trade publications note that the country has sufficient alternative suppliers, with Brazil standing out in particular. In addition, China highlights its own “self-sufficiency” in pork production: official statistics show that the pig population has exceeded 420 million for ten consecutive months, ensuring no domestic shortages are expected.
Restrictions and consequences
The regionalization agreement between China and Spain stipulates that restrictions apply only to the province where the outbreak was detected. This allows other Spanish regions to continue exporting to China, at least in the near future. However, the situation remains tense: in recent days, Spanish control authorities have blocked more than a hundred export certificates for shipments to third countries in an effort to prevent the spread of the infection.
Special measures have been introduced around the infected area: protection and surveillance zones have been established, with enhanced veterinary controls. Spanish authorities emphasize that African swine fever does not pose a risk to humans—neither through contact with animals nor from consuming pork products. However, the disease is deadly for animals, with a near 100% fatality rate, and death occurs within 6 to 20 days after infection.
Global market response
China is not the only country to have responded to the outbreak. Japan, Mexico, and Taiwan have completely halted imports of Spanish pork, as their sanitary protocols do not allow for regionalization. This means the ban applies to all of Spain, not just Barcelona. For Spanish producers, this is a major blow, as these markets have traditionally represented a significant share of exports.
The industry is once again facing renewed concerns over potential economic losses and further restrictions. Spanish farmers and processors are closely monitoring the situation, worried that other countries may follow the example set by China and Japan. Meanwhile, Spanish authorities continue to inform international partners about the measures being taken and emphasize that the situation is under control.
Domestic Measures and Outlook
Within the country, efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent the spread of the virus remain ongoing. Veterinary services are conducting additional inspections, and a special protocol has been introduced in high-risk areas. Exporters are temporarily forced to rethink their supply chains and seek out new markets to minimize losses.
Despite the current challenges, Spanish authorities are hoping for the prompt lifting of restrictions and the restoration of trust among international buyers. For now, the industry faces serious challenges that demand a swift and coordinated response from all market participants.
