Shape Tomorrow by Speaking Up Today
As we close 2023, it is a poignant moment to reflect on our achievements and ongoing efforts to forge a strategic path for the U.S. pork industry amid a complex policy landscape and ever-evolving global dynamics. Without question, the last year presented unprecedented challenges for our nation's 66,000 pork producers. Despite these hurdles, our collective voices resonated loudly, reminding decision-makers across the spectrum that our success isn’t just about sustaining agriculture; it’s about fostering prosperity in rural communities and propelling the nation’s economy into the future.
Over the last year, the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) spoke up for the industry, amplifying our voice here at home and across the globe. From participating at the World Trade Organization to pork producers testifying before Congress and from partnering with states to organize hundreds of congressional visits through our annual fly-ins to hosting educational farm tours and impactful presentations for elected officials and at conferences worldwide — our commitment to advocating for the pork industry knew no bounds.
These efforts helped secure crucial policy wins amidst a politically charged atmosphere. We successfully safeguarded the use of rodenticides from stringent Environmental Protection Agency regulations and opened up new avenues for trade in Ghana and Malaysia. By pushing back on ill-advised legislation in state capitals and cultivating stronger connections with foodservice and retail partners, we defended our industry and showcased its success and value. Each of these efforts to speak up as a unified industry will reverberate for years to come.
As we move into 2024, our resolve remains unshaken. In a political landscape marked by increasing polarization, NPPC recognizes the need to find common ground, devise solutions for complex challenges, and build new relationships. In a presidential election year, maintaining a bipartisan approach is paramount. Collaborating with both sides of the aisle is crucial to finding smart solutions on issues vital to pig farming. Advocacy demands unwavering persistence and active engagement in the legislative and regulatory process, especially as agriculture comprises less than 2% of the population.
Looking ahead, our focus includes finalizing the farm bill, promoting an active trade agenda, addressing the domestic labor shortage, and preparing for potential foreign animal disease outbreaks, among many other priorities, planned or unplanned. Delivering certainty to pork producers in times of uncertainty is our mission, and NPPC is resolute in bringing producers’ voices to D.C., corporate boardrooms, and forums worldwide. We champion their freedom to operate and tirelessly work to help sustain their farms for future generations.
The journey ahead is challenging, but with strategic advocacy and a united industry, we are poised to shape a future of resilience and prosperity for the U.S. pork industry.
Read More:
Pork Industry Leaders Share Urgent Messages at Fall Fly-in
Why You Need to Pay Attention Now to EPA’s Proposed Rodenticide Mitigation Measures
Pork Producers Take On DC for Spring Fly-in
IPEF Talks Must Address Technical Barriers to Trade
Taiwan Invokes Special Safeguards for Pork Belly Imports
NPPC Joins Ag Groups' Ask for Export Council to Address Trade Issues
