The World Pork Expo wrapped up last week in Des Moines, Iowa.

Manitoba Pork General Manager Andrew Dickson was in attendance.

He said the event attracts about 20,000 people, mostly American producers, adding there is a significant number of people from Canada, Europe and Asia.

Dickson talked about some of the highlights.

"Quite noticeable this year was a lot of foreign equipment being shown, especially handling equipment from China. If you're in the pig production business, this is something you need to go and see at least once in your lifetime."

He noted much of the talk at the event focused on the renegotiation of NAFTA, and biosecurity issues surrounding the spread of diseases such as PEDv and PRRS.

andre dickson wpe2 2017
(L-R) Andrew Dickson (MB Pork GM), Secretary of Agriculture for Iowa Bill Northey, Rick Bergman (Canadian Pork Council Chair)