Pork prices in Vietnam tumble as ASF spreads

The outbreak of ASF in the country has driven down domestic pork consumption, sending prices into a steep decline.

Earlier this year, pig prices in Vietnam surged to USD 3.04 per kg in April, the highest level in nearly two years. However, as the African swine fever (ASF) disease spread nationwide from June, prices quickly reversed and have yet to stabilize. On August 19, pig prices ranged between USD 2.09-2.39 per kg across the country.

In Hanoi, pork consumption has dropped sharply as many consumers expressed health concerns. Nguyen Hoa, a resident of Cau Giay Ward, told a local media that her family has cut pork consumption from daily meals to only two or three times a week, replacing it with chicken, beef and seafood.

Restaurant owners are also struggling. Pham Minh Tuan, who runs a bun cha eatery in Mai Dong Ward, said customer numbers had fallen significantly, with many regulars avoiding pork dishes.

The slump has hit small traders and farmers hard. At Kham Thien Market, pork vendor Tran Thi Thu said sales had fallen by nearly a third compared to July. She has reduced her daily stock from 250kg to 180kg, but still struggles to sell out, often cutting prices to move stock.