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Swine program updates: African swine fever preparedness, US SHIP changes and program standards discussed
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Summary
State swine program staff described tri‑national ASF preparedness work with Canada and Mexico, US SHIP program governance questions as USDA takes on more authority, and resolutions proposed to expand voluntary certification to cover additional swine diseases.
Board members heard a detailed update on swine‑industry preparedness and policy work, including an international meeting with Mexico and Canada on African swine fever (ASF), and national discussions about the U.S. States' voluntary shipping program (US SHIP) and NPIP‑style frameworks.
Key points presented
- A recent tri‑national meeting (U.S., Mexico, Canada; with additional representation) focused on ASF preparedness and communications; presenters said the meeting highlighted that U.S. preparedness compares favorably with many partners but also noted concern about departures of experienced USDA personnel and clarity around communications during an outbreak. - Attendees exchanged contact information to enable better cross‑border coordination. Presenters said formal international communications remain a federal duty, but state counterparts are working to establish lines of communication for exercises and information sharing. - At a national US SHIP delegates meeting, USDA is transitioning greater administrative control of the program with an intent to codify US SHIP under USDA similar to NPIP. States that submitted resolutions seek expanded program options (e.g., including additional swine diseases such as porcine epidemic diarrhea virus and mycoplasma) and a continued role for industry representation on the program’s general conference committee.
Why it matters
Speakers framed the items as preparedness and governance issues that affect the swine supply chain’s readiness for ASF and other transboundary diseases. The board was told that program standards and the governance structure for US SHIP — in particular, ensuring active industry and state representation on governing committees — were important to retain state‑level input as USDA adjusts program authorities.
