Argentina opens borders to US pork
The agreement comes after Vice President of the US Mike Pence and Argentine President Mauricio Macri met in Buenos Aires on 15 August. The issue was first raised by Donald Trump with President Macri during a bilateral meeting at the White House on 27 April.
Vice President Pence said the announcement was a “big win” for US pork producers. “After 25 years of discussions, America’s pork producers will soon be able to export their fine product to Argentina,” he explained. “This is one more example of the commitment of President Trump and his entire Administration to breaking down international trade barriers and making free and fair trade a win-win for American workers, farmers and our trading partners.”
According to the US government, the United States is one of the top pork exporters in the world. This announcement could open up a potential $10 million-per-year market for pork producers from America.
The market has so far been closed due to health concerns surrounding US pork. However, under terms of the new agreement, all fresh, chilled and frozen pork and pork products from US pigs will be eligible to export to Argentina.
Moving forward, food safety officials from Argentina will conduct on-site verification of the US meat inspection system.
Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue, Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer were also involved in reaching an agreement.
Under @POTUS the U.S wants to trade even more w/ Latin America..POTUS has made it clear the U.S seeks trade that is both free & fair #VPinSApic.twitter.com/pY4DaIfSFq
— Vice President Pence (@VP) August 16, 2017
