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Canada’s Proposed Ethanol Tariffs: Potential Impacts on the U.S. Swine Industry

Canada is considering imposing tariffs on U.S. ethanol imports, a move that could have significant ripple effects across multiple sectors, including the swine industry. While ethanol may seem unrelated to pork production, its deep ties to corn demand and pricing could bring notable shifts for swine producers.

Corn Prices and Feed Costs
Ethanol production is one of the largest consumers of U.S. corn, and any disruption in ethanol exports could lead to a decrease in demand. If ethanol sales to Canada decline due to tariffs, domestic ethanol production may slow, potentially resulting in lower corn prices. For swine producers, this could translate into reduced feed costs, offering some relief amid fluctuating market conditions.

Lower feed costs could improve profit margins for pork producers, particularly during times of market uncertainty. However, while cheaper feed is generally a positive development, the overall impact would depend on how long and to what extent corn prices decline.

Market Volatility and Trade Uncertainty
Trade disputes often lead to market volatility, and uncertainty surrounding tariffs could create swings in corn futures pricing. Swine producers who rely on consistent feed costs may find it challenging to plan long-term strategies when markets are reacting to policy shifts.

Beyond the corn market, trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. could also impact pork exports. Canada is a key market for U.S. pork, and any deterioration in trade relations could have broader consequences for industry stakeholders.

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Inside the Swine Disease Reporting System - Dr. Guilherme Cezar

Video: Inside the Swine Disease Reporting System - Dr. Guilherme Cezar

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Guilherme Cezar from Iowa State University explains how the Swine Disease Reporting System (SDRS) tracks emerging disease trends in the U.S. swine industry. He outlines patterns in pathogen activity, including positive developments with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and concerning surges in PRRS variants. Gain insights into disease surveillance, biosecurity, and cross-border collaboration potential. Listen now on all major platforms!

"The Swine Disease Reporting System aggregates diagnostic lab data to monitor and interpret trends in nine major swine pathogens."

Meet the guest: Dr. Guilherme Cezar / guilhermec-veterinario-037064168 is a veterinarian and Ph.D. candidate in Veterinary Preventive Medicine at Iowa State University, where he also serves as the Coordinator of the Swine Disease Reporting System (SDRS). With a strong background in swine health, biotechnology, and field epidemiology, he focuses on infectious disease trends and data-driven solutions.