A coalition of agriculture groups is calling on Congress to repeal the Cuba embargo to allow agriculture exports. The latest announcement from the Commerce Department allows more exports to Cuba, but failed to include agriculture products as they fall under restrictions put in place by Congress. The United States Coalition for Cuba wants Congress to act on repealing the embargo to allow agriculture exports and financing of them as well. The Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 does not allow agriculture products to be sold on credit to Cuba.

Rabobank says the global pork market will remain weak for the first quarter of the new year. Rabobank’s five-nation hog price index reached its lowest point since 2006. Rabobank’s Global Pork Quarterly report does say market conditions should improve some heading into the second quarter of the year on a regular seasonal upturn. Chinese imports are expected to increase, supported by firm domestic prices and a further herd destocking this year. The United States pork industry expansion is expected to slow this year after near-record supply growth in 2015.

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