In an apparent backlash to India’s alleged ‘recent, illegal construction of defense facilities on the border’, China is set to ban imports of pigs, wild boar and related products from India.
However, as a cover-up Chinese authorities claim the ban on pork is being imposed in an effort to prevent African swine fever (ASF) and ensure the safety of China’s animal husbandry.
India reported its first case of ASF in both domestic pigs and wild boar in Assam earlier this month.
Pork is the staple diet of the majority of the Chinese population.
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China has achieved initial results in ASF prevention and control.
Since the beginning of this year, the numbers of reported infections, pigs requiring treatment and dead pigs have also shown downward trends, according to the Chinese Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Affairs.