The investigation into the causes of African swine fever in Barcelona province is ongoing in Spain. Minister of Agriculture Luis Planas stated that the most likely source of infection was a food product brought in from a country where cases of the disease had already been reported. According to him, it may have been a type of meat product that ended up near a transport route. This theory is currently considered one of the most reasonable, though no final conclusions have been reached yet.
Authorities in Catalonia had previously suggested that the virus might have entered Spain through a contaminated meat product transported by road. One example given was an ordinary sausage sandwich, which could have been discarded and eaten by wild boars. However, this hypothesis has not yet been confirmed in the lab.
Restrictive measures
After the first cases of the disease were detected among wild animals near Barcelona, strict control measures were implemented in the region. The minister noted that the main task now is to prevent the infection from spreading beyond the identified zone. To achieve this, additional forces have been deployed to the area, including 117 personnel from the emergency response unit. They are working at three checkpoints, capturing animals and ensuring biosecurity.
The military have access to modern resources, including drones and special equipment for working in difficult conditions. In addition, laboratory analysis of new samples is ongoing to identify any potential additional cases of infection. So far, only two cases have been confirmed, but experts do not rule out the possibility that the number could rise.
Industry response
Representatives of the swine industry are calling for calm. According to them, African swine fever poses no risk to humans and cannot be transmitted through food products. The entire sector is actively cooperating with government agencies to minimize the impact of the outbreak and prevent its spread to other regions.
At the same time, experts note that the situation requires constant monitoring. If new outbreaks are detected, additional restrictions may be imposed. Authorities assure that all necessary measures have already been taken, and the situation remains fully under control.
Exports and the economy
Special attention is being paid to pork exports. The minister reported that China has agreed to apply the principle of regionalization, which was reached just a few weeks ago. This means that export restrictions will only apply to the province of Barcelona, while shipments from other regions of Spain will continue as usual.
It is estimated that about 42% of all Spanish pork exports outside the European Union go to China. This amounts to roughly 550,000 tons of product annually. Thanks to the agreements reached, the majority of these exports are not at risk. However, there are still countries that have yet to accept the principle of regionalization, and negotiations with them are ongoing.
Potential losses
Authorities have not yet specified the exact figures for potential economic losses. If necessary, after the outbreak is contained, affected producers will be eligible for compensation. The matter of payouts will be decided separately, once the extent of the sector’s damage becomes clear.
Overall, the situation remains tense but under control. Authorities and industry representatives are doing everything possible to prevent further spread of the disease and to maintain Spain’s position in the global pork market.
