Large numbers of pigs are dying from ASF in China’s top hog-producing province, say farmers and analysts, raising concerns it could spread further across the south and slow China’s pork production recovery.

On the heels of President Joe Biden signing an Executive Order to increase competition in the U.S., USDA says the President’s plan will also level the playing field for family farmers and ranchers.

Pork export value exceeded $800 million for the first time in May, while beef exports recorded the third consecutive month of value record highs, driven in part by record-large exports to South Korea.

USDA Sec. Tom Vilsack is scheduled to travel to Nebraska Friday for what the agency is calling a “major announcement.” It could include details of the Biden Administration’s plan to create more competition within ag.

John Phipps acknowledges the challenges in transition planning from one generation to the next. This week, he shares insights on why no transition will be successful if there is no trust nor respect between generations.

U.S. farmers’ optimism about current and future conditions are seeing a sharp decline to start the summer, as a monthly gauge of producer sentiments hit the lowest reading since July 2020.