MANILA – The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Animal Industry on Wednesday said China’s import ban on pigs, wild boar, and related swine products from the Philippines will not affect current trade between the two countries.

The agency made the statement as it acknowledged China’s restrictions amid concerns over African swine fever (ASF) and the endemic but managed presence of classical swine fever (CSF) in the Philippines.

“While the Philippines does not currently export live pigs, wild boar, or related swine products to that market, meaning, there is no immediate impact on our current trade performance – we view this development through a lens of mutual understanding,” the BAI said.

The agency also assured that it continues to implement strict biosecurity and disease control measures to manage swine health risks in the country.

It added that both the Philippines and China remain aligned in efforts to eliminate swine diseases in line with global agricultural protection goals.

“The fight against ASF and CSF is a shared global responsibility. DA-BAI remains fully aligned with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) standards, ensuring that our local stabilization efforts move us closer to eradication,” the BAI said.

As of May 8, the number of barangays with active African swine fever cases dropped to eight, from 15 on April 10 and 98 at the end of 2025, according to the agency.

The ASF-affected areas are located in Ifugao, Kalinga, Quezon, Camarines Sur, Southern Leyte, and Surigao del Sur.