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.
Food safety assurances
By contrast, supermarkets have seen rising demand. Shoppers prefer pork from large retail chains due to food safety assurances. A supermarket representative reported sales up more than 15% since June.
The Vietnam Animal Husbandry Association said prices have likely bottomed out and will only recover once the disease is contained and supply stabilizes. While a rebound is possible by year-end, increases will be limited compared to previous years.
ASF mainly affects smallholder farms
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, 926 outbreaks remain active in 34 provinces and cities, with more than 330,000 pigs culled, nearly 1% of the national herd. The epidemic has mainly affected smallholder farms, peaking in July and showing slight signs of easing since early August.