The Bhutanese Leading the way.
Bhutan is grappling with a serious wave of African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreaks in 2025, as the disease has struck farms across multiple dzongkhags, affecting hundreds of pigs and putting pig farmers’ livelihoods at risk.
Since February, confirmed ASF cases have emerged in Zangkuphug (Paro), Dzomlingthang (Sarpang), Drukgyel Jab (Paro), Nyalakha (Wangduephodrang), Koilatar (Dagana), and most recently Rangaytung (Chhukha). Cumulatively, more than 300 pigs have been impacted by the virus this year alone, based on official reports from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MoAL).
ASF is a highly lethal disease in pigs with no cure or vaccine, posing a severe threat to pig populations. Each outbreak results not just in animal deaths but also deep economic losses for farmers. Despite numerous advisories and warnings over the years, MoAL notes that many farms continue to maintain poor biosecurity standards. Common risky practices, like feeding pigs uncooked kitchen and hotel food waste, and allowing contact between domestic pigs and wild pigs, have been highlighted as major contributors to the spread.
Alarmed by the increasing number of outbreaks, the MoAL has redoubled its efforts. Officials are urging all pig farmers to immediately improve farm management practices: boiling food waste for at least 30 minutes before feeding, restricting farm visitors, using designated farm clothing, and reporting any suspicious pig deaths promptly to livestock centers or by calling 1244.
Another significant concern flagged by the ministry is the illegal importation of pork and pork products across Bhutan’s borders. The Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA) has already collected over Nu 12 million in fines linked to illegal imports this year. Several pork samples seized from meat shops have even tested positive for ASF, raising alarms about potential new infection sources. Authorities are encouraging the public and hoteliers to report any suspected illegal pork trading.
In a statement issued to the public, MoAL emphasized, “We are doing everything possible to prevent further outbreaks. However, the success of these efforts depends heavily on the cooperation of farmers, traders, and the public. Strict compliance with biosecurity measures and legal trade practices is essential to safeguard our pig farming sector.”
As the battle against ASF continues, it is clear that community vigilance and action are more critical than ever.
