China Bans Pork Imports from Albania to Prevent Swine Fever

China's customs authority has imposed a ban on the direct or indirect import of pigs and their products from Albania following a reported outbreak of African swine fever in the Kukes region. The announcement came after Albania reported the outbreak to the World Organization for Animal Health last month. To further safeguard against the spread of the disease, China will also ensure the proper disposal of animal and plant waste unloaded from any transport originating from Albania.

In response to the swine fever threat, Albania's agriculture ministry has already taken preventive measures by indefinitely banning pig imports from 19 trading partners where cases of the disease have been reported. This step reflects the growing concern over African swine fever, which the World Organization for Animal Health describes as a global crisis for the pork industry. From late January to mid-February, a total of 233 cases were documented worldwide, indicating the pervasive nature of this disease.

China, as the world's largest pork producer, accounting for 44.47% of global pork production, is particularly vigilant about preventing the spread of African swine fever. The country experienced a significant outbreak in 2018 but reported substantial improvement in 2022 with only one case reported. The ban on imports from Albania underscores China's continued commitment to protecting its pork industry and preventing the disease from affecting its massive pork production capabilities.