Spain's pork industry hit by over €1 billion losses as African swine fever drives prices down

The African swine fever (ASF) outbreak declared on 28 November in Cerdanyola del Vallès remains active seven months later, severely affecting Spain's pork sector. Prices at the Mercolleida market, which sets the national reference, have fallen 30.2% to an average €1.18 per kilogram, below the €1.34 production cost, creating a negative margin for the first time in four years. Producers lose about €19.62 per live animal, equivalent to a loss of 16 cents per kilogram sold.

Union de Pagesos estimates the outbreak has caused losses of €265 million in Catalonia and roughly €1 billion across Spain during the seven‑month period. Although export volumes have risen slightly (0.8%), export value dropped 3.4% to €8.49 billion as about thirty countries still refuse Spanish pork. Rossell Saltiveri, national pork sector head, warned that “the sector will have to face a deep restructuring.” The disease continues to threaten further production and market access, prompting calls for heightened vigilance.