U.S. Pork Production Sustainable and Weak Ag Econ Attitude

U.S. Pork Production Sustainable and Weak Ag Econ Attitude

Bob Larson
Bob Larson
From the Ag Information Network, I'm Bob Larson with your Agribusiness Update.

**A new study from the University of Arkansas has confirmed what many have known for some time, America's pig farmers are producing a more sustainable product than ever.

According to porkbusiness.com, the study, a Retrospective Assessment of U.S. Pork Production: 1960 to 2015, the inputs needed to produce a pound of pork in the United States became more environmentally friendly over time.

Specifically, 75.9% less land was needed, 25.1% less water and 7.0% less energy. This also resulted in a 7.7% smaller carbon footprint.

https://www.porkbusiness.com/article/us-pork-more-sustainable-ever-study-shows?mkt_tok

**A new report shows that farmers have a weaker attitude about the agriculture economy from a month ago.

The Purdue University and CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, which surveys farmers, shows a decline in December.

It fell seven points below the index reading from November to 127.

https://www.agweb.com/article/new-ag-barometer-shows-weaker-attitude-about-the-economy/?mkt_tok

**The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, or CPTPP, entered into force on December 30th for Japan, Mexico, Singapore, Canada, New Zealand and Australia.

Vietnam ratified CPTPP in mid-November, so its implementation of the agreement began on Monday, including initial reductions in Vietnam's import duty rates for beef and pork from CPTPP participants.

U.S. Meat Export Federation Economist Erin Borror says Vietnam is a promising market for U.S. beef and pork, but one that's highly competitive and very price-sensitive.

Beef from Australia and New Zealand already enters Vietnam duty-free under existing trade agreements.

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