USDA and USTR finalise requirements for pork exports to Argentina

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and US Trade Representative (USTR) have revealed finalised technical requirements with the government of Argentina to begin exporting US pork into Argentina after 26 years.

With the finalisation of the technical requirements, it is anticipated that the US can resume exports of pork and natural swine casings to Argentina.

US Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue said: “This breakthrough is the result of efforts by this administration to help US farmers and ranchers reach new markets and ensure fair trade practices by our international partners.

“Once the people of Argentina get a taste of US pork products after all this time, we’re sure they’ll want more of it. This is a great day for our agriculture community and an example of how the Trump administration is committed to supporting our producers by opening new markets for their products.”

Last August, the US government revealed that an agreement was signed with Argentina to begin its pork exports to the Argentinean market for the first time since 1992.

Officials from USDA and USTR have been working with Argentina’s Ministry of Agro-Industry to start pork exports on new terms that are practical, science-based and consistent with relevant international animal health standards.

USTR Robert Lighthizer said: “I welcome Argentina’s decision to allow imports of US pork products and the economic opportunity it will afford to US pork producers.

“This effort demonstrates the Trump administration’s continued commitment to address foreign trade barriers to American agriculture exports.”