Commerce & Production

Pork producers run their operations using the latest production methods, precise feed rations, the best animal science, and the newest technologies and innovations to help them produce the safest, most nutritious pork. They also benefit from federal programs and fair federal regulations. Without them, producing pork can be a challenge. NPPC ensures that programs and policies help, not hinder pork production.

Economic Contribution of Commerce and Production

60K+

hog farms in the United States

140M

hogs marketed annually

96%

of hog farms in the U.S. are family farms

Pork Production and Foreign Guest Workers

Agriculture is experiencing a severe labor shortage, and pig farm employment has declined since 2021, despite the industry’s high wages and competitive benefits. The industry is historically dependent on a range of foreign guest worker visa programs to help meet workforce needs, including the H-2A, TN, and J1 visa programs.

California Proposition 12

Animal health and maintaining consumer access to high-quality, affordable pork are top priorities for America’s pig farmers. California Prop. 12 opens a Pandora’s box of state regulatory overreach that threatens family farms across the country. This overregulation hurts farmers, increases costs for consumers, and compromises our nation’s food security.

Latest News on Commerce & Production

Capital Update 12/08/25