Kinmen African swine fever triggers week-long pork export ban to Taiwan

A dead pig carcass found on a beach in Kinmen tested positive for African swine fever (ASF). The Taiwanese government ordered an immediate suspension of pork and pork‑product shipments from Kinmen to the main island and other outlying islands for at least one week, pending a virus‑free period.

Premier Cho Jung‑tai announced inspections of all pig farms within a 10‑kilometre radius of the carcass, reporting no signs of infection. The Coast Guard will inspect refrigerated containers and mailed packages from Kinmen's Liaoluo Port, and travelers are warned not to bring pork products back to Taiwan. President Lai Ching‑te urged vigilance to maintain Taiwan’s ASF‑free status. Officials said the carcass likely drifted to Kinmen due to currents and winds from Typhoon Bavi. This is the first ASF case in 2026 and the 21st since 2018.