China Agriculture View

Over the last ten years, the Chinese swine industry has been rapidly expanding, with the support of local and international investors who have recognized the profit potential. The U.S. Grains Council has been working closely with local producers through the industry expansion, aiding in not only feed ration advising, but also in helping produce a model for modern facilities and management.

USGC Consultant Dr. Steve Pohl and Jason Yan, USGC technical program director in China, met with representatives of Besun Group, a Chinese swine producer, two years ago as they were in search of guidance in building a 20,000-sow operation. With Dr. Pohl and the Council’s expertise, the Besun Group was able to follow an outline for an efficient facility. The Council has continued its support of the operation, offering guidance with further details in managing the facility and employees.

“Besun Group is now finishing four of its seven planned 3,000-sow farms in the Shaanxi Province. The building style and pig flow model has become a model for other companies planning expansion in China,” said USGC Senior Director in China Cary Sifferath, noting more than 20 large swine operations have visited Besun Group for firsthand looks at their facilities.

With the expansion of the industry comes a need for an increased amount of feed ingredients. This week, Council Consultant Dr. Ken Stalder traveled to China to meet with swine producers, offering his expertise in swine management and nutrition. Dr. Stalder focused on genetic improvement, selection methods and the economic benefits to such techniques.