Vientiane:Authorities have enhanced surveillance and disease-control measures to combat African Swine Fever (ASF) while relaxing certain restrictions on livestock movement to ensure a stable pork supply to local markets.
According to Lao News Agency, ASF outbreaks were detected on September 4, 2026, in two villages within Sangthong District and one location in Naxaithong District. The outbreaks have been contained and have not spread beyond these areas, as stated by Mr. Sengphet Chanthasen, Head of the Livestock and Fisheries Sector of Vientiane.
Officials are following both national and local directives and have informed livestock businesses and meat vendors about the new movement guidelines. The affected areas are divided into three zones: red zones with active outbreaks and strict controls, yellow surveillance buffer zones, and green zones where livestock movement is allowed under certain conditions.
Pigs from green zones must pass technical inspections before transport. Additionally, pigs over 100 kilogrammes intended for slaughterhouses must test negative for ASF prior to movement. Authorities have designated approved transport routes to slaughterhouses, which must conduct detailed pre- and post-slaughter inspections and maintain rigorous hygiene standards.
Pork vendors are required to carry comprehensive documentation and transport permits indicating the origin, route, and destination of their products. Market inspections will be conducted, with violators facing administrative fines and, in severe cases, civil or criminal penalties.
Mr. Sengphet emphasized that while ASF is highly fatal to pigs and poses economic risks to farmers, it does not affect humans. The revised regulations aim to maintain disease control while ensuring a sufficient pork supply for consumers.
The Livestock and Fisheries Sector is committed to continuing transport inspections, preventing illegal pork from entering outbreak zones, and taking action against unauthorized roadside meat sales and unapproved slaughtering facilities.
