An outbreak of pseudorabies (Aujeszky’s Disease) detected in pig farms in the U.S. states of Iowa and Texas has not affected exports of pork muscle cuts to Mexico. However, certain product categories have faced restrictions due to precautionary measures by importers.
According to the US Meat Export Federation (USMEF), some shipments have been unable to clear customs when entering Mexico. These primarily include by-products such as pork skins, as well as offal and viscera, which have been subject to import restrictions.
USMEF emphasized that these restrictions do not apply to muscle cuts, and trade in this segment continues. At the same time, engagement between animal health authorities in the United States and Mexico is ongoing, while the outlook for market access remains uncertain.
In addition to Mexico, the outbreak has also led to targeted import restrictions in Canada. These apply to high-risk product categories such as raw inedible by-products, untreated swine blood products, and raw swine manure.
Pseudorabies, caused by suid herpesvirus, persists in feral pig populations in the United States, creating a risk of occasional spillover into production systems, particularly outdoor operations. In response to the outbreak, the country has intensified surveillance and control measures in line with its national eradication program.
Since the initial cases reported in late April, no new infections have been notified to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). However, sporadic outbreaks continue to occur globally, with recent cases reported in Hungary, Papua New Guinea, and France.
Overall, despite localized restrictions, the United States continues pork exports to key markets, although the situation highlights the sensitivity of international trade to animal disease risks.
PigUA.info, based on materials from pigprogress.net