Flag on meat smuggling from Serbia: "Where is the patriotism?

Minister of Agriculture David Vlajčić has raised concerns over illegal meat smuggling from Serbia into Croatia, warning of serious risks to the country’s pig farming industry during the tourist season. Speaking after a meeting with representatives from the Osijek-Baranja County and local municipalities focused on African swine fever (ASF), Vlajčić highlighted three newly confirmed cases of ASF in the region. He also pointed to the presence of smuggled pork products from Serbia in restaurants in Dalmacia, which he described as a threat to domestic production. The minister emphasized that such activities undermine national efforts and called for stricter enforcement of laws and public reporting of violations. The issue came to light following reports of illegal importation of pork through hidden means, including nighttime operations using vehicles to transport goods concealed within other cargo. Vlajčić condemned these actions as destructive to local producers, stating they were driven by profit rather than patriotism. He questioned the integrity of businesses importing meat from Serbia, particularly those located in areas where ASF outbreaks have been recorded. His remarks underscored the need for vigilance and collective responsibility among citizens, producers, and authorities to safeguard the domestic livestock sector. Vlajčić stressed that modern notions of patriotism are not confined to singing folk songs but involve active participation in protecting national interests. He urged all stakeholders, producers, food service operators, and citizens, to comply with regulations and promptly report any irregularities. This includes notifying authorities of suspected signs of ASF or unusual behavior by wild boars, enabling rapid response measures by veterinary services. The minister reiterated that timely action is crucial to preventing the spread of the disease and maintaining the health of the livestock population. County administrator Nataša Tramišak of Osijek-Baranja echoed Vlajčić's concerns, noting that the frequency of ASF outbreaks in her county could be linked to its status as home to the largest pig breeding complex in Croatia. She emphasized that combating the disease requires strict adherence to biosecurity protocols. Tramišak called for an end to smuggling and illegal imports, aligning with Vlajčić’s stance that such practices threaten both economic stability and public health. In addition to addressing ASF, Vlajčić warned against the broader implications of illegal meat trade, including the potential introduction of infectious diseases. He noted that smuggling not only violates national and European legislation but also increases the risk of spreading pathogens. To counter this, the government continues to provide support to legal producers through financial assistance programs, including compensation for losses due to restrictions on movement and other costs associated with disease outbreaks. Over the past three years, more than 51 million euros have been allocated to help farmers affected by ASF-related issues. Vlajčić also announced plans for intensified inspections by veterinary authorities in the Virovitica-Podravina and Osijek-Baranja counties, regions with the highest incidence of infection. These inspections will be accompanied by increased culling of wild boars, a measure aimed at reducing the reservoir of the virus. The minister stressed that the disease remains present in wildlife habitats, particularly in forests and hunting grounds, and urged individuals who frequent these areas, hunters, foresters, mushroom pickers, and recreational users, to remain vigilant and follow prescribed safety measures.