2024 sees African swine fever threaten Italy's €20B pork industry, causing 50-60K pig culls; EU critiques response, leading to enhanced biosecurity.

Italy's pork industry, worth €20 billion, faces a severe threat from African swine fever (ASF), which has led to the slaughter of 50,000 to 60,000 pigs in 2024. The virus has infected nearly 25,000 pigs and 2,500 wild boars since January 2022, primarily in Lombardy, Piedmont, and Liguria. The EU criticized Italy's response, prompting a coordinated strategy and stricter biosecurity measures. Farmers are calling for more financial aid amid significant economic losses.

September 22, 2024
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