TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan plans to apply to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) for recognition as a classical swine fever (CSF) free zone without the use of vaccination, the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) announced Monday (July 1).

If approved, Taiwan could become the first Asian nation free of all three major pig diseases, foot and mouth disease (FMD), CSF, and African swine fever (ASF), by 2025. Taiwan completed one year without CSF vaccinations in pigs as of July 1.

CSF is a serious pig disease caused by a virus. It spreads through contact with infected pigs or contaminated meat products. All infected pigs are culled to stop the spread, per WOAH.

FMD, a highly contagious disease affecting livestock like cows, pigs, sheep, and goats, can significantly impact farmers financially. While most animals recover, the disease weakens them, reducing milk production, per WOAH.

ASF is a disease that causes huge economic losses and harms pig populations worldwide. It affects animal welfare, biodiversity, and farmers' livelihoods, according to the WOAH.

Previously affected by CSF, Taiwan has not reported a local case since 1994, per CNA. The MOA implemented a three-phase plan to phase out CSF vaccinations. 

Strict monitoring has found no activity of wild CSF virus strains for a year. This fulfills the Terrestrial Animal Health Code's criteria for a "CSF-free country" designation.

Taiwan's potential to become a CSF-free country holds significant economic, animal welfare, and reputational benefits. This includes eliminating time and labor costs for regular vaccination, and the cost of purchasing and administering CSF vaccines.