Moldova’s pig industry is facing the threat of a deep crisis as delays in compensation payments for losses caused by African swine fever (ASF) continue to undermine producer confidence and slow recovery after major outbreaks.
Following ASF outbreaks in 2025, when around 118,000 pigs were culled at two of the country’s largest farms, producers are still waiting for the compensation promised by the state. Total industry losses are estimated at more than MDL 440 million (approximately $25 million).
The delays are attributed to court proceedings and institutional disputes. Moldova’s Ministry of Agriculture states that final compensation amounts cannot be determined until investigations are completed, while the National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) has challenged some damage assessment certificates, further prolonging the process.
Andrian Burduja, president of the Association of Pork Producers of Moldova, warned that the lack of progress on payments threatens the very existence of the sector: “If compensation is not paid, the industry may disappear.” He added that the absence of clear timelines and financial predictability is effectively blocking new investment.
Authorities are working on legislative amendments to accelerate the compensation mechanism, but the relevant draft law has not yet been approved by parliament.
ASF itself remains an additional risk factor. According to industry representatives, the disease continues to circulate, particularly in wild fauna, complicating the epidemiological outlook and increasing uncertainty for producers.
PigUA.info, based on pigprogress.net