China is now allowing imports of breeding pigs from Ireland, Reuters reported on Tuesday. According to Ireland’s agricultural minister, Charlie McConalogue, this is an “important milestone” in gaining access to the Chinese market.
The breeding pigs must be put under quarantine in Ireland for no less than 30 days, before export, according to a notice published on the website of the General Administration of Customs. The approval took effect on Oct. 18, according to the notice, which also set out various health and hygiene requirements for the export.
Minister of State Martin Heydon told Euractiv that this agreement recognizes Ireland’s strong history of breeding and selling superior health status pigs to many overseas markets.
“The export of breeding pigs with economically important traits is a niche market opportunity. It reflects well on the breeding population developed by specialist Irish producers,” he said in Euractiv.
However, not all stakeholders are excited about this opportunity to fly live pigs from Ireland to China, the article noted. Naysayers note concerns for animal welfare and climate.
China, in an effort to rebuild its herd that has been devastated by the deadly African swine fever (ASF) virus, began allowing imports of breeding pigs last year to meet surging demand from new farms. However, the approval for Irish pigs has recently occurred as the market has entered into oversupply, Reuters reported.
Pig prices in China have plunged in 2021 on greater supplies and slaughter, leading to major losses for corporate and small farmers. Meanwhile, China’s sow herd contracted in July, first decline in two years, as farmers got rid of inefficient breeders, Reuters reports. The fall continued in August.
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