New agreements strengthen market access for pork producers
In response to continued advocacy from the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), the United States government has finalized two new trade agreements with Malaysia and Cambodia, bringing welcome news to America’s pork producers.
The deal with Malaysia is particularly significant as it opens access to all U.S. pork facilities listed in the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) directory. It also ensures that no extra registration or facility approvals are needed, simplifying the export process. The agreement further confirms Malaysia’s acceptance of the standard FSIS export certificate.
Similarly, Cambodia’s deal mirrors these terms, broadening export opportunities for U.S. producers. Within 15 months, Malaysia will also recognize the U.S. protection zone for African Swine Fever and finalize a regionalization agreement to safeguard trade continuity.
“America’s pork producers are grateful to President Trump for increasing market access for U.S. pork to Malaysia, a country that has been importing pork despite limited plants being eligible for export,” said NPPC President Duane Stateler, a pork producer from McComb, Ohio. “More than 25% of U.S. pork production is exported, so producers count on exports to help keep their farms afloat, especially in times of uncertainty.”
The U.S. pork industry exported over $24.5 million worth of pork to Malaysia in 2024, a remarkable 1,700% increase over the last five years despite only eight plants currently being approved for export.
Overall, pork production contributes to rural economic stability, supporting over 140,000 jobs and adding more than $66 in value per hog marketed. These new agreements demonstrate a strong commitment to expanding international markets, offering producers the certainty and stability they need to thrive.
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