Taipei: Taiwan on Wednesday reported its first suspected domestic outbreak of African swine fever, becoming the latest country affected by the deadly pig disease that has hit 68 countries and territories since 2022. On Tuesday, tests found that pigs on a farm in Wuqi District in Taichung, central Taiwan, were infected with the virus, Ministry of Agriculture officials said at a press conference. The pigs on the farm were tested after 117 of them died between Oct. 10 and 20, the officials said.

According to Focus Taiwan, Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-jih announced that 195 pigs have been culled, and an investigation has been initiated to determine the source of the infection. Following the outbreak, the transport and slaughter of pigs will be banned nationwide for five days, starting Wednesday. In addition, the use of kitchen waste as pig feed will be prohibited, as a measure to contain the spread.

Pork is a staple in Taiwanese cuisine, and the pork industry plays a significant role in Taiwan’s agricultural sector, generating around NT$70 billion (US$2.3 billion) annually. Over the years, Taiwan has implemented stringent control measures to protect its pork industry.

Earlier this year in May, Taiwan was recognized as the only country in Asia free of African swine fever, classical swine fever, and foot-and-mouth disease, as declared by the World Organisation for Animal Health.