ASF in Moldova: 20% of pig population culled amid outbreaks, imports to fill the gap

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A series of African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreaks in March and April 2025 has led to the culling of approximately 118,000 pigs in Moldova—around 20% of the country's entire pig population. Moldova’s veterinary authority confirmed around 30 separate outbreaks, including two at commercial farms, marking the most devastating ASF wave in the country’s history.

Short-term drop in production

According to Andrian Burduja, head of the Moldovan Pig Farmers Association, the drop in production is expected to be temporary. The affected farms are planning to resume operations by this autumn. “As for prices, the situation is stable. Our prices are 3–5% lower than in 2024. Any increase will lead to mass imports. Even if we wanted to, we couldn’t raise prices,” Burduja said.

The Moldovan Food Security Agency echoed this position, confirming that there is no threat of a pork shortage in the country. However, the agency added that part of the demand will be covered by imports.

Pork shortage to be covered by EU imports

Local meat processors report that the domestic market is already experiencing a shortfall of about 8,000 tons of pork, according to Gagauz Info. The publication notes that this gap will be filled in the coming weeks through increased pork imports from the European Union.

However, this switch will not be painless. Gagauz Info also reported that retail pork prices have already risen by 18–20 Moldovan leu per kilogram (€0.90–€1), and further increases are anticipated due to relatively high import duties.


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