Vietnam is grappling with a serious outbreak of African swine fever (ASF), with government officials warning of potential disruptions to the country's food supply. The virus has rapidly spread across 28 out of 34 provinces, resulting in the culling of over 30,000 pigs since the start of 2025.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called for urgent and coordinated action from local authorities to contain the disease and safeguard the nation’s pig farming industry. The situation threatens not only agricultural production but also food security and environmental health, as the pork industry plays a central role in Vietnam’s food system.
Despite having approved its first domestically developed ASF vaccine in 2023, Vietnam's vaccination rollout remains limited. Coverage in some provinces, such as Quang Ngai, stands at just 30%, hindered by vaccine shortages, high costs, and skepticism about effectiveness. AVAC Vietnam JSC, the vaccine manufacturer, has reported distributing 3 million doses within Vietnam and exporting 600,000 doses to the Philippines and Indonesia.
Experts warn that the limited reach of vaccination could further strain the pork supply, which may trigger a surge in food prices. The outbreak also threatens to replicate the widespread economic disruption caused by previous ASF outbreaks in Asia, such as the devastating losses experienced in China between 2018 and 2019.
On-the-ground reports suggest some small-scale farmers are hiding outbreaks, citing inadequate compensation and fear of losing their herds. Infected pigs are reportedly being sold illegally or disposed of improperly, exacerbating the risk of further spread. Provinces like Lang Son, Cao Bang, and Phu Tho continue to report active outbreaks, especially in mountainous regions where veterinary oversight is limited.
The ASF crisis is accelerating a structural shift in Vietnam's livestock industry. While over 70% of pork production has traditionally come from smallholders, there is growing momentum toward larger, biosecure commercial farms. In support of this transition, Vietnam has partnered with Australia through CSIRO’s Aus4Innovation programme to form a National Innovation Alliance for Pig Biosecurity. The alliance aims to develop new tools and training programs to help contain the virus and modernize the sector.
As the government works to boost vaccine supply, improve outbreak reporting, and expand biosecurity training, experts stress that without swift and coordinated efforts, Vietnam could face lasting consequences in food availability and economic stability.