The decline of household pig farming in rural southwest China: socioeconomic obstacles and policy implications

Jian, Li

article

The decline of household pig farming in rural southwest China: socioeconomic obstacles and policy implications

Culture & agriculture : bulletin of the Anthropological Study Group on Agrarian Systems • 32 (2) • Published In 2010 • Pages: 61-77

By: Jian, Li.

Abstract
This is a study of household pig raising in a village in southwestern China to understand why pig raising is on a decline despite China’s increased demand for pork. While the price of pork has been increasing, farmers do not see an increase in profits because the profits are instead going to the slaughterhouses, pig traders, and retail shops. Other disincentives to raising pigs include increases in veterinarian expenses, diseases, and government taxes and fees. Furthermore, households are short on labor as young members seek employment in cities. Finally, the use of chemical fertilizers has replaced the need for animal manure.

Subjects

Domesticated animals

Applied animal science

Animal by-products

Meat packing industry

Refuse disposal and sanitary facilities

Production and supply

Income and demand

Price and value

culture

Han Chinese

Region