China moves to steady hog market

On April 28, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China convened the inaugural meeting of its Expert Advisory Committee on Pig Industry Monitoring and Early Warning.

Experts at the meeting assessed the current state of hog production and market conditions, noting that hog production capacity is being reduced in an orderly manner, prices are stabilizing and improving, and the supply-demand balance is also improving. Market confidence, they said, has begun to rebound, with prospects pointing to a gradual improvement.

At the same time, the experts cautioned producers to adhere to capacity control policies, plan production and slaughter schedules rationally, and market hogs in line with prevailing conditions. Holding back hogs in anticipation of higher prices or expanding production to “bet on the market” were highlighted as risky strategies that could lead to avoidable losses.

The meeting emphasized that supply and demand in the hog industry are undergoing profound changes, making stronger and more coordinated capacity regulation increasingly necessary. The establishment of the advisory committee is intended to help build industry consensus, enhance the role of early warning mechanisms, and improve the effectiveness of government regulation.

Government to purchase pork reserves

The National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and the Ministry of Commerce will jointly guide relevant local departments to purchase frozen pork reserves and promote the stable operation of the market.