Source: MSN
Manitoba is preparing an emergency response plan to address the potential threat of African swine fever (ASF), a highly contagious pig disease that has devastated herds across Asia, Europe, and Africa. While ASF poses no risk to humans, an outbreak in Canada could require the mass culling of pigs and trigger immediate border closures, costing Manitoba’s pork sector up to $3.1 billion annually. With 90% of Manitoba pork exported, officials call ASF both an economic and animal welfare emergency.
The province has issued a request for proposals to hire a consultant to coordinate a response plan involving government agencies, processors, and producers. Collaboration with other pork-producing provinces, as well as trading partners like the U.S. and Japan, is essential to reduce disruption. Authorities emphasize strict biosecurity and border controls as key defenses. The finalized plan is expected by March 2026, aiming to safeguard Manitoba’s critical pork industry.