Romania enforces strict border controls to curb African swine fever spread

Romanian veterinary authorities have imposed severe movement and bio‑security restrictions in Satu Mare County after confirming that African swine fever (ASF) has been detected in a neighboring Hungarian pig farm. The measures, announced by interim Agriculture Minister Tánczos Barna and ANSVSA president Alexandru Bociu, establish quarantine zones around seven localities—including Berveni, Lucăceni, Cămin and Urziceni—and ban the transport of live pigs, carcasses and pork products in and out of the area.

All farms within the zones must isolate pigs from wildlife, disinfect entry points, keep detailed visitor logs and may face seizure of feed or culling of infected animals. Officials stress that the virus is highly contagious among swine but does not affect humans. DSVSA Satu Mare spokesman Nicolae Dumuța warned that “the health of animals and protection of Romanian farmers is our absolute priority in this trans‑border alert.” The Hungarian outbreak involved roughly 3,000 pigs that were culled, prompting Romanian authorities to monitor the entire border and be ready to extend restrictions if needed.

The actions aim to prevent the introduction of ASF into Romania, which could cause significant economic losses for pig producers and disrupt regional meat supplies.