The Chinese Ministry of Agriculture reported a new outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) today (April 29). The outbreak was discovered in the northern region of Inner Mongolia, which borders Russia and Mongolia.
According to Reuters news agency, the outbreak was discovered near the town of Baotou. Of the 432 pigs on the farm, 343 have died. Recently, 2 other outbreaks have also been reported in Xinjian northwest of Inner Mongolia.
According to the ministry, the outbreaks are incidental and not a regional outbreak. Including the current outbreak, the counter for this year stands at 10 outbreaks in China. However, many outbreaks are not officially reported and industry confirms that ASF had a significant impact on pig production in the first quarter of 2021.
Division into zones
From May 1, China will divide the country into 5 different zones with the aim of containing the spread of ASF. According to new rules, only breeding pigs and piglets may then be transported across regional borders. This may lead to price differences. For example, larger producing regions could be faced with a surplus, while large consuming regions could be confronted with a shortage.
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