The Moldovan Pig Farmers Association, led by Andrian Burduja, indicated that any reduction in pork supply due to the culling will be temporary. Burduja stated: “As for prices, the situation is stable. Our prices are 3-5% lower than in 2024. Any increase in prices will automatically lead to mass imports. We, as producers, will not be able to increase prices even if we wanted to.” He noted that affected farms are expected to resume operations by autumn 2025, mitigating long-term production declines.
The Moldovan Food Security Agency reinforced this perspective, asserting that there is no risk of a pork shortage. The agency acknowledged that imports will partially meet demand to ensure supply stability. However, local meat processors, as reported by Gagauz Info, estimate a current shortfall of approximately 8,000 tons of pork in the domestic market. This gap is expected to be addressed in the coming weeks through increased imports from the European Union.
The shift to imports may pose challenges. Gagauz Info reported that retail pork prices have risen by 18 to 20 Moldovan leu (€0.90-€1) per kilogram, with further increases anticipated due to import duties. Despite these price adjustments, the agency and farmers’ association maintain that the market will remain balanced, with imports preventing significant shortages.
The ASF outbreaks have prompted swift action from Moldova’s veterinary and food security authorities to manage the crisis and stabilize the pork market. The planned resumption of farm operations and reliance on EU imports reflect a strategic approach to maintaining supply and supporting the agricultural sector.
Burduja’s assurance of stable pricing and the agency’s confidence in import solutions highlight Moldova’s efforts to navigate the temporary disruption caused by the ASF outbreaks. By leveraging both domestic recovery and international trade, the country aims to ensure a steady pork supply for consumers while supporting its pig farming industry through this challenging period.
