BioSec Bob here on Saturday, July 18, 2026 — let’s get right into it.
The National Pork Producers Council is pushing hard for new federal drone rules, saying they’re critical infrastructure protection for the nation’s food supply. According to Pork Business, NPPC wants the Agriculture Department and Department of Homeland Security to establish regulations that would keep unauthorized drones away from farms, processing facilities, and feed mills. The council argues that tighter rules around drone operations near agricultural assets are essential to prevent disruptions and safeguard the country’s pork production network.
Good news on the trade front: Colombia’s lifted its ban on U.S. pork offal and swine genetics imports. National Hog Farmer is reporting that the removal of these restrictions opens new market opportunities for American producers. The ban had blocked shipments of byproducts and breeding stock, so this reversal should expand export possibilities for U.S. swine operations looking to reach South American buyers.
Shifting south of the border, Mexico’s ended its pseudorabies ban on U.S. pork offal as well. National Hog Farmer reports the restriction that had prevented offal exports to Mexico is now lifted, allowing those shipments to resume. That’s another significant market reopening for American pork producers.
On the disease side, the Swine Health Information Center is applauding Iowa’s response to a pseudorabies detection. National Hog Farmer says SHIC commended the state’s quick action and biosecurity measures following the identification of the virus. Iowa producers and state officials moved fast to contain and address the situation, and the collaborative response is being held up as a model for how the industry should handle disease threats.
Across the Pacific, a concerning development: a pig carcass found on a beach in Kinmen has tested positive for African swine fever. Taiwan News is reporting the discovery, which underscores the ongoing presence of ASF in the region. Kinmen is part of Taiwan, and the detection highlights the continued risk the disease poses to swine operations in Asia.
India’s now developed its own African swine fever vaccine, following Vietnam’s earlier progress on the same front. The Tribune reports that India’s vaccine development effort represents another step by major Asian producers to build domestic defenses against ASF. Both countries are working to protect their swine herds from a disease that’s caused significant losses across the continent.
Keep a close eye on those trade developments — market access can shift fast.