Kevin Keane

Scottish pig farmers are receiving a £2m emergency support package to offset losses caused by falling pork prices linked to an African Swine Fever outbreak in Spain that has disrupted exports to China. Smaller independent producers, already paid below the Standard Pig Price, have faced heavy weekly losses, prompting some to leave the sector. The funding will reimburse farmers up to 85% of the weekly standard price but is expected to cover only part of their deficits. Rural Affairs Secretary Gillian Martin called the financial context challenging and urged the UK government to boost border biosecurity. Farming leaders warn the crisis is the worst in decades and may increase reliance on imported pork if prices remain depressed.