China Key for EU Pork Producers

Pork prices have been struggling in the European Union, but there is hope ahead. Linked below is an article that discusses the many factors that have lead to declining pork prices for the EU and why there is hope ahead. Read through the linked article and utilize the discussion points to spark conversations in your classrooms and communities around the world.

Struggling EU Pig Farmers Look to China for Hope

Discussion Points

• What has caused a decline in pork prices for the European Union?
• Why is the demand for pork imports into China increasing?
• What has the European Commission done to protect farmers in the EU? Does your home country have similar protection policies like this in place? Are these policies fair?
• Why is China likely to turn to the EU, before the US to acquire additional pork imports?
• This article tells a great story of international trade and world markets. Recently at a conference I attended the following was stated, "This isolation theory that is out there is scary for agriculture." What does this mean to you and how would isolation of a country affect it's agriculture and food supply?

Soybeans: To Accept or Not

Featured below is an article from Ag Web that discusses the possibility of some elevators not accepting Roundup Ready 2 Xtend soybeans in the United States due to policies in place around the world with different countries. We encourage you to explore the linked article and startup conversations around the world in your classrooms and communities utilizing the provided discussion questions.

Elevators Say 'No Thanks' to Extend Soybeans

Discussion Points

• Why are some elevators not accepting Roundup Ready 2 Xtend soybeans in the United States?
• Why are many confident that in the future Roundup Ready 2 Xtend soybeans will be accepted by the EU?
• How could the decision of the EU affect markets, supply, etc. in regards to accepting or not accepting Roundup Ready 2 Xtend soybeans? 
• If you were a farmer and preparing for planting, would you plant Roundup Ready 2 Xtend soybeans or go with another option? Justify your response.