Chile: SAG suspends imports of pork products from Spain due to outbreak of ASF
African swine fever (ASF) is a viral disease that affects only pigs and wild boars, and Chile remains free of it. It is not a zoonosis, meaning it is not transmitted to humans through contact with animals or by consuming meat or pork products. However, due to its significant impact on production, its potential introduction into the country would pose a serious risk to the national pork industry, one of the world's leading exporters of pork and pork products.
Spain recently reported the detection of two wild boars testing positive for African swine fever (ASF) in Barcelona. This is the first detection since 1994, which led to the country losing its disease-free status with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). Following the confirmation, Spanish authorities automatically suspended exports to third countries from the affected area.
As a protective measure, Chile will implement a 30-day quarantine period—equivalent to two incubation cycles of the virus—starting from the probable date of infection. This means that all shipments of raw materials produced from October 28 onward will not be allowed to enter the country until the European Union officially establishes the corresponding zoning. Currently, pork products from Spain represent 2% of total imports of these goods.
The SAG also reinforced other health measures, such as continuous internal surveillance through monitoring of farms, slaughterhouses, livestock fairs, and production units to detect any signs of the disease early. It also strengthened inter-institutional coordination with Customs, port authorities, airlines, and other agencies to minimize the risk of the virus entering the country, while maintaining a constant flow of information with the private sector.
African swine fever (ASF) is a viral disease that affects domestic pigs, wild pigs, and boar. It poses no risk to humans, as it is not a zoonosis. It is highly contagious among pigs and can cause up to 100% mortality, resulting in severe economic losses, market closures, compromised animal welfare, and a significant reduction in the availability of meat and pork products. The virus is very resistant and can survive on clothing, footwear, vehicles, and products such as ham, sausages, and bacon.
The Chilean Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) is urging the public to avoid bringing meat products or foods containing pork into Chile from affected areas and to report any irregular activity related to the entry or sale of animal products. Pig owners are also reminded to immediately notify SAG of any suspected cases of the disease, especially if they observe signs such as high mortality, hemorrhaging, cyanosis (red or bluish spots) on the ears and extremities, or necrosis of the skin and tissues.
It also reiterates the importance of maintaining active surveillance and collaborative work among citizens, authorities, and the productive sector to prevent the entry of African swine fever into the country. Early detection and the strict adoption of preventive measures are essential to prevent the introduction of this high-impact disease, which could severely affect the national economy and jeopardize Chile's animal health.
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