China halts pig, wild boar imports from Philippines amid swine fever alert

China on Thursday announced an immediate ban on imports of pigs, wild boars and related products from the Philippines following a recent report of swine fever submitted to the World Organisation for Animal Health, according to the General Administration of Customs and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

The ban, aimed at safeguarding China's livestock industry and strengthening biosecurity, takes effect immediately upon announcement.

According to the measure, the direct or indirect importation of pigs, wild boars and related products from the Philippines is prohibited. The entry of such animals and products by mail or in personal luggage is also banned, with any items discovered subject to return or destruction.

Animal and plant waste, including swill, discharged from vehicles arriving from the Philippines, must be treated under customs supervision and shall not be discarded without authorization.

Any pigs, wild boars and related products originating from the Philippines intercepted by border inspection authorities will be destroyed under customs supervision, the authorities added.