September 8, 2005
 

USDA: Chile pork annual 2005

As a result of a strong export demand the largest Chilean pork producers are expanding production by increasing the number of sows. Production then is expected to expand an estimated 10 percent in 2005 and another 14 percent in 2006. 

Imports also are expected to grow, as exports of pork are likely to outgrow production expansions.

Chile's pork industry has based its development on the geographic isolation that has been fundamental to keep an animal disease free environment. Economic stability, along with an open market strategy, has encouraged investments that have had a positive effect on the quantity and quality of production. 

There is a strong focus on controlling the production process to meet buyer specifications. Pork production has grown extraordinarily during the last decade, at a rate of slightly less than 9 percent yearly.

This production expansion is mainly due to increases in efficiency and the transfer of the low grain prices (the main input in swine production) to the consumer, stimulating pork meat consumption.

For the full USDA report, click here.