“It’s Pork O’ Clock Somewhere” pushes for USMCA ratification

by | Nov 8, 2019 | 5 Ag Stories, News

Agricultural groups call for a trade pact’s ratification before the legislative session ends. A group amps up their efforts, calling on Congress for a ratified U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) Thursday launched a new campaign, which highlights the benefits of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

Jim Monroe, assistant vice president of communications for NPPC, speaks to the crusade, called ?It?s Pork O? Clock Somewhere.” He says the effort focuses on the many ways pork is enjoyed across North America, while highlighting the importance of a ratified agreement.

?We want to keep a spotlight on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement that is in place, but needing to be ratified,” Monroe said. “There are a lot of issues swirling around the U.S. pork industry, and there are none more important than ratifying USMCA and getting it implemented. That will preserve zero tariff pork trade in North America long-term and give our farmers some certainty.?

In 2018, more than 40-percent of U.S. pork exports went to Canada and Mexico. Monroe says ratification of this agreement will establish a long-term relationship with some of the United States? largest export markets.

?They?re important markets for us, and they?re important for the rural economy. They are critical for our producers and their families,” Monroe said. “We are highly dependent on exports, (as) one in four hogs raised in America is being raised for the export market. Mexico, in particular, is our single largest export market by volume.?

The campaign also thanks United States lawmakers for making such ratification a priority. The Council also wants to remind Congress that ratification of this agreement reinforces the idea that pork is one of the most competitive export products in the United States.