USSEC recently visited several swine processing plants in Columbia and talked to personnel about security standard operating procedures. As these employees work in state of the art facilities, Julio Chaves, USSEC contractor, highlighted their responsibilities to meet public health standards and strict protocols to assure meat quality. Practicing safe and sanitary methods leads to higher pork sales and an increased demand for soy-based feed.
Previously, Columbia imported 90 percent of its soybeans from the United States, but due to high tariffs, Columbia currently imports a majority of its soybeans from South American countries. The free trade agreement may allow the United States to increase its soybean market share in Columbia.