Mexico has temporarily halted all imports of pork and related products from Spain,effective instantly,following the detection of African swine fever in the Iberian Peninsula. The decision,announced November 29,2025,by the Mexican Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER),aims to safeguard the country’s domestic swine population and prevent the spread of the highly contagious viral disease.
The suspension impacts a significant trade relationship,though the volume of Spanish pork entering Mexico is relatively modest. In 2024,Mexico imported approximately 11,000 metric tons of pork from Spain,representing roughly 3% of its total pork imports. While the immediate economic impact is limited, the move underscores Mexico’s heightened vigilance against animal diseases that could devastate its agricultural sector and disrupt food security. SADER officials stated the ban will remain in effect until Spanish authorities demonstrate successful containment and eradication of the outbreak to international veterinary standards.
African swine fever poses no risk to human health, but it is almost always fatal to pigs. The virus spreads through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated feed, and equipment. Mexico has implemented strict biosecurity measures at its ports of entry and is intensifying surveillance of domestic pig farms to prevent any potential introduction of the disease.
The outbreak in Spain, first confirmed in early November 2025, has prompted widespread culling of infected animals and the implementation of strict movement controls in affected areas. The European Union is coordinating efforts to contain the spread, but the risk of further outbreaks remains high. Mexico’s swift action reflects a proactive approach to biosecurity, mirroring similar responses by othre countries in the Americas and asia.
