1    INTRODUCTION

Swine production has always been and continues to be an important economic activity in many regions of Missouri. This audit provides background on the economic importance of the Missouri swine industry and describes the economic forces shaping the industry and opportunities for swine producers in the state. The three sections of the audit are as follows:

1. Analysis of the historical, economic, structural and competitive trends affecting the swine industry in Missouri.
2. Analysis of the current competitive position of Missouri’s swine production industry.
3. Identification of systems, strategies and economic opportunities available to the industry and to producers prepared to adapt to structural and competitive changes.