European Commission eases African Swine Fever restrictions in Emilia-Romagna

The European Commission has approved a revision of African Swine Fever (ASF) restriction zones in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna. The decision affects six municipalities across the provinces of Piacenza and Reggio Emilia.

Four municipalities will be removed from the restriction zones entirely, while two others will transition from Zone II to Zone I, resulting in a reduction of containment measures. This adjustment follows an epidemiological assessment showing zero new confirmed cases in the affected areas over the past year, alongside successful surveillance, research, and depopulation efforts.

Regional officials Alessio Mammi and Massimo Fabi noted that the move is a significant step for both public health and the local economy. The easing of restrictions is expected to benefit pig farming, processing, and deli industries that previously faced heavy commercial limitations, particularly regarding exports to the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.