Illegal pig imports risk local market and exports, Paraguayan producers warn

Paraguayan pig producers are raising alarms over the surge in illegal pork imports, warning that the contraband poses a significant threat to both the domestic market and the country's export potential. The Association of Paraguayan Pig Producers (APPC) asserts that these irregular entries create unfair competition for formal producers who adhere to strict sanitary, tax, and environmental regulations.

Enzo Mannarini, president of the APPC, explained that producers who invest heavily in genetics, feed, infrastructure, and health controls are undermined by the influx of unregulated animals. This practice not only impacts profitability and farm sustainability but also discourages investment, hindering the sector's growth. Mannarini emphasized Paraguay's efforts to develop a modern and competitive pork industry, noting that informality directly challenges this progress.

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Those of us who work within the formal system make significant investments in genetics, feeding, infrastructure, and sanitary controls, so the entry of animals without any control affects the profitability and sustainability of our farms.

The issue of irregular imports is not new, particularly in border regions, which historically present challenges for control. Mannarini stressed the importance of maintaining constant vigilance and strengthening control mechanisms. He called for firm investigation and sanctions for every detected case, citing the economic damage and, crucially, the sanitary risk to the entire national pork production chain. The warning comes after authorities recently intercepted approximately 40 live pigs being transported in a truck without the required authorization and apparent ear markings.

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From the APPC, we believe that each detected case must be investigated and sanctioned firmly, not only for the economic damage it generates but also for the sanitary risk it implies for the entire country's pork production chain.