Chile targets Vietnam for pork exports

Chile seeks to expand its Asian footprint by exporting pork to Vietnam, reinforcing bilateral cooperation and sustainable trade practices.

GUARDAR EN LA BIBLIOTECA PDF

Photo credit: ChileCarne

Commercialization pigporknews Valerie Nguyen

Chile, one of the world’s top five pork exporters, is making its final push to secure approval for pork exports to Vietnam. The South American nation already counts Vietnam among its strategic partners, with more than 55% of Chile’s food exports directed to Asia.

In 2024, Chile’s food and beverage exports reached USD 26 billion, including salmon, fruit, wine, poultry, and pork. Pork remains its largest meat export, with 60% of production destined for overseas markets.

Biosecurity and sustainability as industry strengths

Chile’s unique geography creates a ‘biosecurity island’, protecting livestock from diseases such as African swine fever (ASF) and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS). Strict biosecurity standards and cooperation with the Agriculture and Livestock Service ensure disease-free production.

The pork industry operates under a vertically integrated model, controlling every stage from feed and breeding to processing and distribution. This guarantees 100% traceability and consistent supply.

Sustainability is a central pillar. About 95% of production meets Chile Origen Consciente standards, aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Over two decades, the industry reduced water use per animal by 69% and greenhouse gas emissions per pig by 24%. Advanced waste management now treats 82% of livestock waste, while clean energy integration continues to expand.

Strengthening bilateral cooperation

Chile’s pork initiative reflects broader economic ties with Vietnam. Chile has signed 35 free trade agreements with 65 economies, including Vietnam since 2014.

Consul Andrés Meza emphasized complementary relations: Chile offers expertise in mining and agriculture, while Vietnam contributes industrial dynamism, particularly in electronics. Agricultural Attaché Rosaura Campusano expressed optimism, noting Vietnam’s attractiveness as a destination and the importance of collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Juan Carlos Domínguez, President of ChileCarne, highlighted Asia as Chile’s main market and voiced hopes that Vietnam will soon join China, Japan, and South Korea as a key destination.

Vietnam market opportunities ahead

Once approval is granted, Chilean pork will enter Vietnam’s growing market, offering high-quality products produced under strict biosecurity and sustainability standards. The initiative underscores Chile’s commitment to responsible trade and Vietnam’s role as a priority partner in Asia.