Regionalization is a fundamental principle in international agri-food trade. It consists of accurately defining the area affected by an animal disease, ensuring that the entire country does not face export restrictions.
This means that, when a sanitary incident occurs, only the affected region limits its exports, while the rest of the territory can continue trading normally.
This internationally recognised system is essential to maintain economic stability, food security and sector competitiveness.
Why the achievement of the Spanish Government, INTERPORC and the sectoral associations matters
In the current episode of African Swine Fever (ASF) detected in wild boar in Catalonia, the effective application of regionalization has been crucial.
Thanks to the coordinated work of the Spanish Government, the Catalan authorities, INTERPORC, and industry associations, importing countries have accepted this principle and kept their markets open to Spanish pork.
This ensures that:
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Exports remain open for all of Spain,
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with restrictions applied only to the strictly affected area,
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preventing severe economic damage to a highly export-driven sector.
Catalonia as an example of effective sanitary management
In the focus identified in the province of Barcelona, the measures were applied rigorously:
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The affected area is clearly delimited,
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only farms within the surveillance zone are subject to special controls,
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and export restrictions apply exclusively to the province of Barcelona, not to the rest of Spain.
This confirms the effectiveness of a system based on quick action, strong biosecurity and institutional cooperation.
Regionalization is not just a technical mechanism—it is a lifeline for thousands of companies and families linked to the pork and meat sectors.
The coordinated response of public administrations, INTERPORC and industry associations —including ANAFRIC— strengthens international confidence in Spanish production and protects one of the key economic engines of the country.
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