JOHANNESBURG - African Swine Fever outbreaks have slashed South Africa's pig numbers, triggering an imminent spike in pork prices.
The disease affects farms in the Free State, North West, KwaZulu-Natal and parts of Gauteng.
Producers say around 7,000 pigs have been lost from the formal market, tightening supply.
The industry says the pork market is highly sensitive to shortages.
Even a 2% drop in supply can push prices up by around 10%.
Producers are also warning that higher feed and operating costs are adding to the pressure on prices.
The pork industry assures consumers that pork sold through formal retailers remains safe to eat, despite the disease outbreaks.