Christmas ham prices to rise as African swine fever hits Spanish pork imports

Ham prices are set to rise sharply this Christmas following a significant outbreak of African swine fever in Spain, disrupting the supply of pork products to the UK. The British government has imposed a temporary ban on imports of Spanish pork goods such as chorizo and Serrano ham, leading industry leaders to warn of shortages and higher prices in the run up to the festive season.

Lizzie Wilson, chief executive of the British Pig Association, stated that Spanish pork products stranded at ports would put upward pressure on prices and could result in reduced availability for consumers. She explained that while a complete shortage is unlikely, many specialist retailers rely on just-in-time supply chains and some may already be unable to fulfil demand.

Pepe Jose Garcia, proprietor of Westminster Meat Market in London, reported that the crisis has forced customers to travel considerable distances to collect Spanish pork, as traditional delivery routes have been disrupted. He noted that a recent shipment was stopped at the border, highlighting the immediate impact on supply chains. Data shows that the UK imported 56000 tonnes of Spanish pork products in the first nine months of this year, illustrating the scale of potential disruption. Alongside Britain, countries such as Mexico, Taiwan, and Cuba have introduced similar bans to prevent the spread of disease.

The move stems from concern that the African swine fever, which has affected wild boar in northern Spain, could spread to domestic pig populations. If infected Spanish meat were imported, there is a risk of transmission to the UK herd, threatening the domestic pork sector, which generates £5 billion annually. The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs has highlighted the increased risk from illegal meat imports, which have risen from 13 to 70 tonnes in two years, and a growing wild boar population in the UK.

Some British butchers believe the crisis could offer an opportunity for the domestic pork industry. Steven Owen, manager at Lidgate Butchers, pointed out the potential for increased demand for British pork, particularly as beef prices remain high and avian influenza has affected turkey supplies. He suggested that consumers may opt for locally sourced pork this Christmas in response to restricted imports.

While concerns remain about continued availability of traditional Spanish pork products, the situation enhances the profile of British pork producers in the domestic market during a critical sales period. The government and industry continue to monitor the risk of disease transmission and its implications for the broader agriculture sector.