Budget planning has been on the agenda for the Pork Checkoff board. “Our current national spend budget is roughly $41 million that is going to be actively deployed on the ground in the field,” reported National Pork Board CEO Bill Even. “That is divided between our three major goals; grow consumer demand, sustainable production and build trust.” With those priorities, the Pork Checkoff is making advancements in its Secure Pork Supply business continuity plan. Sustainability and the development of an updated version of the We Care initiative are also priorities. Even, who is a former secretary of agriculture in South Dakota, says the Pork Checkoff must be nimble and able to address international markets. “That means actively, aggressively exploring exploring new market opportunities around the world.”
RRFN’s coverage of World Pork Expo is sponsored, in part, by the Minnesota Pork Council.