U.S. pork exports for June are up 8-percent over a year ago and for the first half of the year are also up 2-percent. National Pork Producers Council Vice President and Counsel for Global Government Affairs Nick Giordano says an increase in business to China is part of the reason for the stronger exports and that’s despite a strong U.S. dollar, which is generally a headwind for sales.

He says pork export strength can also be attributed to the successful free trade agreements the U.S. has in place.

As far as the future of free trade agreements, Giordano is concerned about what he’s hearing from the Presidential candidates regarding their stance on free trade.

Giordano says free trade agreements are critical in reducing tariffs and improving market access.