Fear of African Swine Flu grips

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The ban on pork imports in the Solomon Islands remains in effect.

Julianne Mose from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Biosecurity division in a recent interview with Island Sun, said that the ban is still in place due to concerns regarding African Swine Fever (ASF).

“We have maintained this ban for nearly five years, and it has not been lifted; it remains in effect,” she said.

The biosecurity officer said that while ASF has not yet reached the Solomon Islands, it is present in neighbouring Papua New Guinea and other states of Australia.

“The ban was implemented following guidance from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO),” she explained.

As part of the Ministry’s strategy for preparedness and awareness, efforts are being made to safeguard the country against this virus-related disease.

“Although ASF is not currently in the Solomon Islands, we are concerned about reported cases in Papua New Guinea, and we must take this seriously by implementing necessary measures to prevent its entry into our country,” Mose emphasised.

She said that the Solomon Islands introduced the ban on pork and pork products in April 2020 to prevent the spread of ASF, a highly contagious viral disease that poses a significant threat to pig populations and can lead to substantial economic repercussions.

She acknowledged that the ban has impacted local businesses dependent on imported pork, including Sullivans and Nambawan Meat Limited.

Furthermore, she mentioned that the Biosecurity office is available to provide guidance on the legitimacy of imported meat products and to outline the relevant biosecurity requirements.