This measure, it is hoped, will curb the further spread of African Swine Fever (ASF), which recently hit the Belgorod region. ASF poses no threat to humans but is deadly to pigs.

Presence of ASF in Belgorod may lead to devastating consequences as about 20 per cent of Russian pig production is concentrated in this area.

Back-yard production currently accounts for 25 - 35 per cent of pig production in Russia and any attempts to stamp it out are likely to impact many rural populations.

After Mr Dvorkovich’s comment, industrial pig producers immediately came under fire as ruthless companies which try to kill competition from back-yard production.

Big companies are doing every thing they can to contain ASF and therefore, they will not have second thoughts if there is a chance to talk to the government about restricting back-yard production.

It is thought that Russian back-yard producers have no reason to trust authorities and are likely to sabotage any efforts to keep ASF at bay.

It is important however that everyone works together in the fight against ASF or it will be impossible to wipe it out completely..

Back-yard producers have been steadily losing their share of the market to industrial units for years.

The only reason that back-yard producers are able to continue operations is through free feed – which is leftover or “borrowed” grain from agricultural companies.

The Russian ASF problem is also possing a threat the rest of Europe