African swine fever outbreak impacts Catalan meat industry and Collserola

Research from the Centre d'Investigació en Sanitat Animal (CISA) suggests that the African swine fever (ASF) outbreak in Collserola, detected in November 2025, was likely introduced through human activity. Genomic sequencing indicates the virus variant is highly similar to one found in Georgia, though it does not match previously identified European strains. Investigators noted that contaminated pork products and high human connectivity remain recognized pathways for the virus's introduction.

The outbreak has significantly impacted the Catalan meat industry. While major companies like Vall Companys, BonÀrea, and Grupo Cañigueral reported increased revenues in 2025, net profits for several groups declined due to rising costs and market shifts. The loss of ‘free from ASF’ status resulted in the revocation of over 100 export certificates, leading to market closures in Japan and Mexico, and restrictions in China and the Philippines.

Despite two consecutive weeks without positive cases in wild boar, restrictions in Collserola Natural Park remain in place. The park has faced ongoing closure challenges for over nine months, with increasing reports of unauthorized entries by the public.