Full Breakdown
EU Sees Sharp Surge in African Swine Fever Outbreaks in 2025
5/22/2026, 1:27:19 AM
Rapid Rise in ASF Cases
In 2025 the European Union recorded a 76 % jump in African swine fever (ASF) outbreaks among domestic pigs and a 44 % rise in wild boar. The disease reappeared in Spain in November, ending a 30-year disease-free period and bringing the total number of affected member states to fourteen. EFSA’s annual report listed 585 domestic-pig outbreaks and 11,036 wild-boar incidents, the highest wild-boar count since 2021.
Context and Actors
ASF is a highly contagious viral disease that does not affect humans but can be fatal to suids. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) monitors the disease and publishes epidemiological assessments. Spain, the EU’s leading pork producer, and Germany reported isolated cases far from previously known infection zones. Romania accounted for 81 % of domestic-pig outbreaks, while Croatia, Estonia and Latvia also saw increases.
Key Numbers
- Domestic-pig outbreaks: 585 (up 76 % from 2024)
- Wild-boar outbreaks: 11,036 (up 44 %)
- Affected countries: 14, including Spain and Germany
- Spain’s nearest prior case: northern Italy, ~700 km away
- Germany’s nearest prior case: northern Italy, ~200 km away
- Average size of restricted zones remained broadly stable despite the surge.
Trade Implications
ASF outbreaks trigger trade bans and movement restrictions that can disrupt intra-EU pork markets. Spain’s renewed infection threatens supply chains given its status as the bloc’s top pork producer. Romania’s dominant share of domestic cases highlights regional vulnerability and could amplify market volatility.
EFSA Assessment
EFSA concluded that the rapid increase was driven primarily by Romania and noted the unusual long-distance introductions in Spain and Germany, suggesting external vectors rather than gradual spread. Although the overall area under restriction did not expand markedly, EFSA urged intensified surveillance, stricter biosecurity, and coordinated wild-boar testing to pinpoint introduction sources.
Verbatim Quotes
- “REUTERS/Nacho Doce/File Photo PARIS, May 21 - African swine fever outbreaks in the European Union rose sharply in 2025, increasing by 76 % in domestic pigs and 44 % in wild boar, as the disease reemerged in Spain after more than three decades, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) said Thursday.” — European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
- “The disease is harmless to humans but can be fatal to pigs and wild boar and spreads rapidly.” — European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
- “Outbreaks can lead to trade bans and movement restrictions.” — European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
Next Steps
EFSA plans to issue updated risk assessments in 2026 and to coordinate with national veterinary services on targeted wild-boar testing. The EU Commission is expected to review movement-restriction protocols and consider additional funding for biosecurity upgrades in high-risk regions.
