It’s been a challenging year for pork. But the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) is actively engaging in international trade matters, advocating for fair market access and addressing challenges affecting pork producers worldwide to help with this. Maria Zieba, Vice President of International Affairs for the National Pork Producers Council, shed light on the current tariff landscape and what their strategic priorities are for the coming year.
“In China, pork and pork products still face a 25 percent duty, significantly impacting the export of muscle cuts,” says Zieba. “While the trade primarily involves variety meats, NPPC emphasizes the necessity of diversification in product offerings, expressing concern about the continued imposition of tariffs affecting producers.
Meanwhile, attention is directed towards the Philippines, with efforts focused on influencing a potential tariff reduction by year-end, aiming to sustain market accessibility.
NPPC consistently urges for fair tariffs and trade rules, emphasizing the need for new market access opportunities. The organization is actively pressing the administration and Congress to prioritize pork market access globally.
Zieba adds, “addressing trade barriers, especially in regions like South Africa where access has been established but shipments are impeded, remains a crucial focus.”
She also expressed concern over state regulations, citing California’s Proposition 12 as an example of undue regulation impacting the entire U.S. pork industry and setting unwelcome precedents for international trade.
Looking ahead to 2024, NPPC emphasizes the significance of the Farm Bill’s impact on pork and other agricultural commodities. Priorities include the renewal of programs like Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) crucial for international market promotion.
“NPPC is steadfast in advocating for fair trade policies, market access, and disease prevention measures critical for the sustainability and growth of the pork industry globally,” adds Zieba.
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