Chinese pork imports could reach a record of more than one million metric tons this year. The new prediction by industry leaders marks a 28-percent increase in pork imports into China. Iowa Pork Producers President Al Wulfekuhle says that’s positive news for the U.S. pork industry.
The increase of pork imports into China will challenge Japan’s status as the top customer of U.S. pork. Wulfekuhle says that’s a significant change from the status quo on pork exports.
Wulfekuhle says the key to gaining market access for America’s pork producers is the passage of free trade agreements like the Trans Pacific Partnership.
Wulfekuhle says the challenge in working with the Chinese is they don’t always follow through with their agreements. He says that will need to be addressed if they ever become part of the TPP or any other trade deal.
