There is no relaxation in pig farming! The pork market has faced a number of challenges in recent years, including volatile prices, disease and changes in market conditions, which have weakened domestic producers’ interest in raising pigs. A similar situation is present in Europe, where there is a decrease in the number of pigs due to the negative effects of production on climate change. Despite these problems, pork still represents an important source of protein, and its production is crucial for the stability of the economy.
Modern genetics is becoming increasingly important in pig farming, with the aim of improving production characteristics and reducing the negative impact on the environment. In this context, the global company PIC, which deals with the genetic improvement of pigs, plays a leading role. Their regional director for Europe, Jack Keane, pointed out that the pig farming sector in Serbia has a sufficient number of sows and significant potential for further development. PIC focuses on the selection of traits that are in demand in the market, especially on the reproductive and finishing performance of sows, as they make up 50% of the production process.
PIC uses state-of-the-art tools such as genetic selection and digital tools to strengthen the animals’ legs. This enables them to achieve the desired results. The great strength of the company lies in the huge number of animals they work with, because genetics depends on statistics – the more data they collect, the greater the probability of genetic progress. The company operates in developed markets, including the USA, Canada, South America, Europe and China, adapting products to specific market requirements.
Is there any progress in pig farming going forward?
PIC has also achieved significant success in the fight against the PRRS virus, which is causing huge costs to livestock farmers around the world. The company has produced pigs resistant to this virus and is awaiting approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market these pigs. This could revolutionize pig farming. In addition, pigs produced by PIC emit 7.7% less greenhouse gases compared to the competition, which is an important advantage in the era of climate change.
Although pig numbers are declining in Europe, except for Spain, pork production still plays a key role in the global protein supply. China, as the world’s largest producer of pigs, is facing problems due to African swine fever, while new markets, such as India and sub-Saharan Africa, are increasingly turning to pig farming. The profitability of pig production depends on the stability of the market, and large farms have an advantage due to lower costs. At the same time, there are producers who deal with specialized niches, focusing on delicacies.
Keen believes that pig farming has a bright future, despite the challenges. He hopes that PIC will soon find a partner on the Serbian market, even though the competition is already operating in Serbia.
Source: Farmer
Source: boljazemlja.com
