January 17, 2021
Swine farmers in northeast India oppose US pork imports
Swine farmers and traders based in northeast India have opposed allowing US pork imports into the country, The Shillong Times reported.
They said US imports will affect the local market, adding that the imported meat is presumably cheaper, processed and come from genetically engineered swine.
Monoj Kumar Basumatary, the president of the Northeast Progressive Pig Farmers Association (NEPPFA), said there should be a concentration on improving local breeding and feed quality in the country, as well as increasing credit availability for farmers.
40% of India's swine comes from northeast of the country.
NEPPFA said the decision to allow US pork imports comes as small-scale swine farmers are stinging from the blow of COVID-19 lockdowns and African swine fever (ASF).
During the US-India Trade Policy Forum in November 2021, both countries agreed to expand trade on agricultural products, including pork.
- The Shillong Times
