Around one in four of the worlds pigs are expected to die from African Swine Fever (ASF), according to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) in Paris.
The disease has swept across more than 50 countries, killing hundreds of millions of pigs.
“I dont think the species will be lost, but its the biggest threat to the commercial raising of pigs weve ever seen,” said Mark Schipp, the OIEs vice president.
Earlier this month, Chinas farm ministry said the countrys pig population was now more than 40 percent smaller in September than a year before, because of the disease.
African Swine Fever has scythed through hog populations in Asia over the last year, sending global pork prices spiraling, with knock on effects for animal feed markets such as corn and soybean.
“We are really facing a threat that is global,” said Monique Eloit, the OIEs director-general.
