President's Declaration

The advent of the global crisis in the last few months of the year obscured the excellent results obtained in 2008. Its unprecedented impact on the world economy could hardly fail to take its toll on the industry. The marked drop in exports in November and December caused prices to fall and discouraged everyone.

However we must remember the major positive facts from 2008. Throughout this year, prices were good in both domestic and importing markets and there were major achievements that will strengthen the pork industry in the future.

Domestic demand increased, and pork became more competitive with other animal proteins. New cuts and packaging are taking more and more space on retailers’ shelves. Much remains to be achieved, but a trend has been established.

Market research has confirmed the previous results: consumers have clearly acknowledged the unique flavor of pork, and prejudice against the consumption of pork and its possible negative effects on health and hygiene has fallen markedly. The health aspect in particular has improved considerably.

An analysis of the menus of the best and most sophisticated restaurants will show pork gaining space; it is now almost always on the menu. We believe that this will end up having an effect on cooking in general; it clearly reflects the influence of European cuisine. Pork, formerly a traditional dish in Brazilian cuisine, but one that has been absent, is coming back in style and this will certainly strengthen future consumption.

Acknowledging this fact, the gastronomy section “Paladar” of the “O Estado de S. Paulo” newspaper declared pork the product of the year. It was an honor for ABIPECS to receive the award on behalf of the industry’s production chain.

Important steps were taken regarding new markets. Chile was the first country to recognize the state of Santa Catarina as a FMD-free zone where vaccination is not practiced, and to list exporting plants. Following the Veterinary Mission carried out toward the end of 2007, Japan sent a comprehensive questionnaire in preparation for the opening process, which we hope will become reality by 2009. The result of the United States’ risk analysis study of the state of Santa Catarina was positive. China visited Brazil in November 2009, and we hope that access to the Chinese market will be approved by early 2009. Preparations to welcome the European Union Veterinary Mission are continuing.

The year of 2009 has all it takes to become the great landmark for the opening of new international markets, thus unquestionably placing the pork industry on a path toward growth and prosperity. Our continued over-dependence on exports to the Russian market should be reduced, which is even more urgent considering that we were surprised by changes in Russia’s regimen of quotas and tariffs last year. That was certainly the major negative fact of 2008.

Pedro de Camargo Neto
Executive president