The China-Asean Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) was launched as scheduled on Janu­ary 1, 2010, a motion which will see more than 90% or over 7,000 prod­ucts traded between China and the ten Asean member countries at zero tariffs.

Despite swine being a major agro-industry in the Philippines, the development of pig genetics in the country is yet to reach its potential. Proof of which is poor herd health and husbandry as well as inadequate nutrition of the animals particularly among backyard-raised hogs.

Probably a surprise to many, Thailand is already the world's number one exporter of natural and organic products, says the country'sOffice of Agricultural Affairs. Its organic exports are varied whichinclude fruits, vegetables, rice and now - livestock.

Previously focused on providing premium quality chicken to Saudi Arabia, Radwa Food Production Company now expands to broader markets, ushered by its vision to become the biggest and most successful food company in the Middle East.

San Miguel Foods sees 20% increase in chicken exports; Hormel seeks expansion for Chinese market; China's Yuhe completes construction of breeder farm; Immunovaccine Inc signs licensing deal with Pfizer to develop vaccine; Sanofi-aventis and Merck to create a global leader in animal health.

Gainco introduces QA system for poultry processing; Aquentium introduces safe antimicrobial poultry processing technology.

Hubbard appoints new Technical Service Manager North America; Smithfield Foods appoints first chief sustainability officer.

Escherichia coli O157:H7 con­tamination of human food products is a major concern for the beef industry. To con­trol contamination in the food chain, it is essential to understand how this pathogen is able to grow and compete with other bacteria in the gastrointes­tinal tracts of cattle.

Over the last twenty years, new­ly developed chemical sensor systems, also known as electronic noses, have made odour analy­sis possible. These systems involve various types of electronic chemical gas sensors with partial specificity, as well as suitable statistical methods enabling the recognition of complex odours.

MEAT & LIVESTOCK Business Asia talked to Pawan Kumar of Food & Agribusiness Research and Advisory, Rabo India Finance Ltd, on his views on the impressive growth of India's poultry sector and some factors pulling it back.