TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's health authorities are now deliberating whether to lift restrictions on live pig transportation and slaughtering by Friday (Nov. 7), due to the recent African swine fever. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) stated that a decision will be made in a meeting on Wednesday (Nov. 5), with plans to implement market management and meat stabilization strategies over the next month.
During a media briefing before the Legislative Yuan's (立法院) general interpellation, Premier Cho highlighted that the outbreak resulted from improper waste management, specifically uncooked kitchen waste. He emphasized the need for stricter controls on waste disposal to prevent future incidents. He assured that the Executive Yuan (行政院) will meticulously plan to stabilize pig prices and ensure a steady meat supply.
The Central Emergency Operation Center (CEOC, 中央災害應變中心) announced on November 3 that Taiwan had its first case of African swine fever, traced to a pig farm in Wuqi (梧棲), Taichung. The authority revealed that the virus likely originated from the Wuqi farm's inadequate cooking equipment and noted another farm remained unaffected due to compliance with cooking regulations.
The infected pigs tested positive on Oct. 21, with virus analysis confirming the case on Oct. 25. Premier Cho noted that the Executive Yuan will review all matters weekly, aiming for stability within a month. He also called for necessary investigations by relevant agencies.