Spain's Pork Exports at Risk as Swine Fever Spreads

Spain is in a tough spot. The country, known for being the biggest pork producer in the European Union, is facing a big problem. African swine fever is spreading among wild boars near Barcelona. This disease doesn't hurt humans, but it's a big deal for pigs and wild boars. It spreads quickly and can cause serious problems for the pork industry. Recently, eight more wild boars were found with suspected cases of the disease. This brings the total number of suspected cases to 14, with two already confirmed. The Catalan government is working hard to confirm the other cases and control the spread. This outbreak is causing big problems for Spain's pork exports. About a third of the export certificates have been blocked. Spain exports pork worth 8. 8 billion euros every year. The agriculture minister is working to keep international markets open, but it's not easy. Many countries are reacting to the spread of the disease. Taiwan has banned all pork products and live pig imports. China has stopped pork imports from Barcelona province. Britain and Mexico have also suspended pork imports from Spain. The situation is critical. Spain needs to act fast to control the disease and protect its pork industry. The world is watching, and the stakes are high.