Manila: The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI) announced on Wednesday that China's recent import ban on pigs, wild boar, and related swine products from the Philippines is expected to have no immediate effect on the current trade relationship between the two nations.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DA-BAI acknowledged China's restrictions, which were implemented due to concerns over African swine fever (ASF) and classical swine fever (CSF), also known as hog cholera, in the Philippines. The agency noted that the Philippines does not currently export live pigs, wild boar, or swine-related products to China, thereby minimizing any immediate trade impact. Nonetheless, the DA-BAI expressed a commitment to maintaining mutual understanding with China on these issues.

The bureau also reiterated its dedication to enforcing stringent biosecurity and disease control measures. Both the Philippines and China are actively working to eliminate swine diseases within their borders to safeguard the global agricultural supply chain.

"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 stated.

As of May 8, the number of barangays with active ASF cases decreased to eight, down from 15 barangays as of April 10, and significantly reduced from 98 barangays at the end of 2025. The affected areas are located in Ifugao, Kalinga, Quezon, Camarines Sur, Southern Leyte, and Surigao del Sur.