June 7, 2007

Pork supply in Hong Kong seen steady

Amid rising costs, Hong Kong's overall pork supply will remain stable as imports from Mainland will be increased to meet market demand.

The Health, Welfare & Food Bureau has said the Mainland will also supply 80 percent of Hong Kong's live pig imports.

Chilled pork has gained popularity among consumers since its introduction last August, from its initial daily imports of 10,440 kilograms to 24,600 kilograms, noting an increase by 135 percent. Compared with the same period last year, the increase was as high as 160 per cent after taking into account the supply of chilled pork from other regions.

In May last year, the country's government launched the voluntary surrender scheme for pig farms and 244 of the 265 farms in Hong Kong submitted applications. When they stop rearing pigs, there will be a drastic fall in local fresh pork supply.

The Hong Kong government will also closely monitor pig diseases on the Mainland and continue to liaise with Chinese authorities to ensure safety standards.