Yolchu Khanveli said the virus was discovered in the South Caucasus state's northern Gabala Region, in the village of Nidzh, which has been quarantined.
"Blood samples from pigs bred in the village were tested in a laboratory of the State Veterinary Service. The test results confirmed the presence of the African swine fever virus," he said.
ASFV is a highly contagious virus causing fatal hemorrhagic disease in pigs. The virus can survive for up to 15 weeks in meat, and up to half a year in processed hams. Swine fever does not pose a threat to humans.
In October-November last year, ASFV was discovered in two other ex-Soviet republics, Georgia and Armenia. The chief vet of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization warned at the time that if ASFV spreads to nearby countries, the consequences could be serious.
