The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is inviting public comments on a new proposal to establish a national program aimed at safeguarding and improving the health status of U.S. pigs. This proposal builds upon the success of the U.S. Swine Health Improvement Plan (US SHIP), a pilot program launched in 2020 to monitor and certify farms for African swine fever (ASF) and classical swine fever (CSF).

APHIS is proposing to transform US SHIP into a national voluntary livestock improvement program. Under this proposal, APHIS would create specialized sectors for different types of swine herds and production facilities based on disease risk and production methods. Participating sites would receive certifications indicating their status as disease-monitored, which would enable them to market their products with assurances that they are free from ASF and CSF. This certification could significantly reduce the risks of disruptions in international and interstate commerce in the event of disease outbreaks.

Aiming for a National Health Standard for U.S. Pigs

Since its pilot phase, the US SHIP has helped improve swine health monitoring systems and provided transparency for the swine industry. By expanding the program into a national effort, APHIS aims to create a comprehensive framework for disease monitoring, prevention, and health assurance for U.S. pigs, similar to the successful National Poultry Improvement Plan. The National Poultry Improvement Plan, a collaboration between industry, state, and federal partners, has long addressed avian health and trade issues, and APHIS aims to adapt this working system for the swine industry to meet the health and trade demands of the 21st century.

A key feature of the proposed US SHIP is the creation of a General Conference Committee, which will be composed of swine producers, industry representatives, and state animal health participants. This committee will advise APHIS on matters related to swine health, disease management, and program implementation.

Why This Matters for U.S. Pork Producers

The expansion of US SHIP into a nationwide program offers several benefits for the pork industry. For swine producers, the ability to certify their farms as disease-monitored will provide a competitive edge in global markets. By demonstrating that their herds are free from ASF and CSF, producers can build trust with international customers and protect the flow of U.S. pork exports, which are vital to the U.S. economy.

Additionally, the program would reduce the impact of disease outbreaks, such as ASF and CSF, by ensuring that affected farms can be quickly identified and quarantined, minimizing the spread of disease and the disruptions to the industry.

Public Comments Open Until January 30, 2025

APHIS is seeking public input on the proposed rule, and all comments must be submitted by January 30, 2025. The agency encourages stakeholders, including swine producers and industry professionals, to share their thoughts on how the program can best serve the swine industry while safeguarding the health of the U.S. pork supply.

To provide feedback, visit www.regulations.gov to submit your comments and contribute to shaping the future of U.S. swine health and trade.