“The pork industries in the US and Chile provide safe, high-quality pork”

In an interview with ChileCarne, Nick Giordano, Vice President and Counsel of Global Government Affairs of the United States National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), shared his thoughts about the pork industry in Chile and the US and the current global scenario. Giordano visited Chile to exchange experiences and best practices used in both countries. Among other things, Giordano stated that even with African swine fever (ASF) and coronavirus, pork is positioned globally as the most consumed meat, and producers in both countries are in an excellent position to take advantage of this opportunity.

The NPPC brings together 42 state associations and provides a unique voice to the US pork industry. It aims to improve opportunities for pork producers by positioning the industry as a consistent and responsible supplier of quality pork for both the domestic and global markets.

The NPPC represents 60,000 pork producers in the US, and its main function is advancing laws and regulations that favor the industry, keeping and developing market opportunities for exporting, as well as protecting labor conditions and the livelihood of local producers. The Council focuses on public policy issues related to agriculture and industry, animal welfare and food safety, environment and energy, and international trade.

How do you see the Chilean pork industry? How would you rate it?

The Chilean pork industry is a strong and vibrant global competitor. We enjoy some friendly competition with our fellow producers in Chile.

In your opinion, what should be modified or implemented in our industry in terms of processes or new technologies?

Technological innovation is the backbone of competitive economies. Both the US and the Chilean pork industry have adopted technological innovation well. It depends on the governments of both countries to provide the adequate regulatory frameworks to support safe production practices. Of course, consumer acceptance of the technology is also an important factor.

What elements or characteristics do both pork industries share?

Both governments have very high standards for animal health, animal welfare, food safety and the environment. The pork industries of the United States and Chile are very successful in meeting high international standards and providing safe and high-quality pork.

Given the complex global scenario due to the coronavirus outbreak, what measures is the US implementing in relation to pork exports? Have production or exports been reduced?

A large percentage of US and Chilean pork is exported to Asia. Exports to China, in particular, have been very fast. Exports tend to decline during the Chinese New Year, and that was also the case this year. Even though coronavirus is also affecting transportation logistics, the demand for pork in China remains high and we expect exports to continue.

What is your global outlook for the short and long term?

The outlook for the global pork industry is strong both in the short and long term. In the short term, there will be a global shortage of pork and most proteins as a result of the African swine fever. In the long term, as the world’s population and per capita income continue to grow, consumers will increasingly switch to meat-based diets. Pork is particularly well positioned as the most consumed meat in the world. Pork producers in the US and Chile are in an excellent position to take advantage of this opportunity.

What measures are being implemented in the US to prevent the entry of ASF into the country?

Keeping African swine fever away from the US is the number one priority for American pork producers. We are working closely with the federal government to strengthen biosecurity to keep ASF and other diseases away from our borders. These efforts include collaborating with other governments across the Western Hemisphere to prevent African swine fever from entering the region.