The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) is continually hard at work ensuring the needs of swine producers across the country are met. During the World Pork Expo, I met with CEO of the NPPC, Neil Dierks, so he could provide us an update on the organization and the issues they support.

“We have been dealing with a number of issues. One of the hottest issues is trade. We also have some domestic policy issues we are working on. The number one in front of us is Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). We are big supporters and we want to see it done.”

On the domestic side, Neil said he has been working on the Mandatory Price Reporting reauthorization. This is renewed every five years and he said they have been working on some suggested changes and improvements.

Neil also touched on PEDv and the decrease in cases this past winter. He said he is very proud of how the swine community came together to tackle the epidemic, but vets are quick to say we are not out of the woods yet. Although the decrease is a good thing, it has led to an slight oversupply throughout the industry. He said packing capacities will be tight, but the bigger issue will come a year from now. “I don’t have a big enough crystal ball to see what is going to happen there, but we are looking at strategies to move product.”

Of course Neil talked about antibiotics. He said the most important thing is to keep communication lines open. NPPC wants to work with producers so there are no surprises and he is very optimistic that the industry will make a smooth transition. Neil said, “Healthy animals produce safe food.” And folks, that is the most important thing.

Listen to my complete interview with Neil to learn more about these driving issues impacting the pork community. Interview with Neil Dierks, CEO, NPPC

Find photos from the event here: 2015 World Pork Expo Photo Album