The Dominican Republic's detection of African swine fever (ASF) has sparked concerns that could potentially halt US pork exports, as the disease could spread to areas near Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. In response, the US Department of Agriculture (APHIS) is planning to establish a Foreign Animal Disease Protection Zone in these territories to maintain US animal health status and continue pork exports. This includes restricting the movement of pigs and products, enhancing surveillance, and implementing public education campaigns. APHIS also has measures in place to prevent ASF from entering the US, such as restrictions on swine products from the Dominican Republic and increased inspections by Customs and Border Protection.