November 8, 2021

Belgium's pig farmers not required to contribute to national budget fund

Pig farmers in Belgium will be exempted from contributing to the country's budget fund for the health and quality of animals and animal products this year.

The outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) putting pressure on exports, the COVID-19 crisis and rising energy and feed prices have created a very difficult situation for the Belgian swine industry.

As a result, pig farmers have seen prices for pigs fall and their costs rise.

Belgium's swine industry has already been recognised as a sector in crisis, allowing farmers to request deferment or exemption from social security contributions for the last quarter of 2021 and the first quarter of 2022.

The sector's exemption should save it approximately €3 million (US$3.5 million).

- Vilt (Belgium)