Canada advances African swine fever preparedness with new zoning arrangement with Japan

The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food is pleased to announce the Government of Canada has successfully established an African swine fever (ASF) zoning arrangement with Japan.

The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food is pleased to announce the Government of Canada has successfully established an African swine fever (ASF) zoning arrangement with Japan. This agreement is a significant step in Canada’s ongoing preparedness efforts, helping maintain access to this important market while supporting measures to contain and limit the spread of disease and protect animal health.

Under the new arrangement, pork exports to Japan will continue from ASF-freezones, even if the disease is present elsewhere in Canada. This provision is critical for maintaining trade with Japan - a key market for Canadian pork. In 2025, Canada exports of pork and pork products to Japan valued at approximately $1.8 billion, accounting for 31% of export values.

Although Canada remains free of ASF, the disease continues to spread globally. ASF is not a risk to human health or food safety, but it is highly contagious and fatal for pigs. An outbreak in Canada would have serious consequences for the pork sector, affecting animal health, producers, supply chains, and the broader economy.

Proactively securing zoning arrangements is an important part of Canada’s preparedness plan. This work reflects sustained technical collaboration and ongoing engagement between all levels of the Japanese and Canadian governments. It enables a science-based, internationally recognized approach to maintaining safe trade during an outbreak, helping mitigate disruption to pork trade and supporting food security.