Dutch-China Partnership Transforms Pig Farming for 187 Trainees

When African Swine Fever nearly wiped out half of China's pig population in 2019, the world's largest pork producer knew it needed to rebuild smarter. Now, a Dutch-Chinese partnership is proving that sharing knowledge across borders can transform an entire industry.

China produces 45% of the world's pork, and the meat makes up 60% of what Chinese families eat. After the devastating disease outbreak, Chinese companies started looking for better ways to raise healthier pigs while treating animals more humanely.

Enter the Netherlands, a country known for combining cutting-edge farm technology with strong animal welfare practices. Through the Sustainable Pig Farming China program, Dutch experts brought their "integrated approach" to Chinese farms, focusing on three key elements: technology, data systems, and often-overlooked training for farm workers.

The program launched in January 2025 with online masterclasses that attracted 187 participants, nearly double the expected number. Experts from Wageningen University and Dutch companies taught Chinese farm managers and trainers about animal health, welfare, and biosecurity.

By December, 30 Chinese managers and trainers visited a special training farm in Anping, where Dutch companies built a research and demonstration facility. They learned hands-on techniques for improving pig health and production through interactive workshops and guided tours.

The real magic happened when theory met practice. In March 2026, Dutch trainers visited actual Chinese farms and discovered something encouraging: the farms already had good equipment, but improving workers' understanding of pig behavior could make operations even better.

The Ripple Effect

This collaboration is creating waves far beyond a single training program. Several Chinese farms are now pursuing business partnerships with Dutch companies for everything from data management to climate control systems.

Sixteen training institutes across China have joined the network, meaning thousands of future farm workers will learn these animal-friendly practices. That translates to better lives for millions of pigs and more sustainable food production for the world's most populous country.

The program shows that when countries share expertise instead of just selling equipment, everyone benefits. Dutch companies gain new markets and partnerships, while Chinese farms get practical solutions that actually work in their conditions.

For the pigs themselves, this means better living conditions, improved health care, and more humane treatment across thousands of farms. That matters for both animal welfare and food safety for billions of consumers.

When knowledge crosses borders and experts work together on real-world challenges, entire industries can transform for the better.