May 6, 2024

Swine industry in Scotland, UK, faces ASF threat due to import control failings

Industry leaders in Scotland, UK, have raised concerns over the looming threat of an African swine fever (ASF) outbreak, attributing the risk to what they perceive as the UK government's inadequate approach to import controls, Pig World reported.

Andy McGowan, a board member of Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and chief executive of Scottish Pig Producers, has emphasised the need for proactive measures to avert an outbreak amidst the vulnerabilities posed by the current import protocols.

McGowan highlighted the failure to adequately check veterinary certificates for commercial imports, coupled with allowances for individuals to bring in pork products for personal consumption, as significant gaps in the control system.

McGowan's attendance at the global consultation on ASF control, organised by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, underscored the urgency of implementing preventive measures to safeguard Scotland's swine industry. He stressed the need for stricter regulations to prevent ASF introduction through commercial and personal imports of pork products.

Highlighting the findings of the global consultation, McGowan stressed the importance of swift and effective response mechanisms in the event of an outbreak, focusing on the need for coordinated efforts involving testing, culling, and movement controls.

At the domestic level, QMS has initiated proactive measures, including the establishment of a 'Feral Pig Working Group', aimed at addressing the threat posed by feral swine as potential vectors for ASF transmission.

NFU Scotland vice president Andrew Connon echoed concerns over the UK government's lax approach to import controls, citing reports of inadequate checks and admissions of shipments with incorrect paperwork. Connon urged immediate action to rectify border control failings and enhance protections for Scotland's pig industry.

Connon said it is important to allocate additional resources to target illegal imports, which often present the greatest risk, alongside ensuring appropriate checks on legitimate imports from the EU through control points.

-      Pig World