With nearly 19,000 direct jobs and a network of 9,000 suppliers—70% of which are SMEs—the Chilean swine sector is an important driver of the country’s growth. Its contribution goes far beyond food production: boosting local economies, creating job opportunities, and promoting safe and inclusive workplaces with more growth opportunities.
Behind every production process, every innovation, and every export lies an essential asset: the thousands of people who, with their commitment, experience, and dedication, make it possible for the sector to keep growing and delivering quality foods to consumers.
Currently, the industry contributes around 19,000 direct jobs and mobilizes a network of 9,000 suppliers, of which 70% are small and medium-sized enterprises, contributing to the economic and social development of a number of communities throughout Chile.
«People are the heart of the swine industry. Every step forward in productivity, animal welfare, food safety, sustainability, and innovation is possible thanks to the commitment of thousands of workers who contribute their professionalism and dedication day after day. Our challenge is to build stronger workplaces where people can advance, grow, and plan a future, because the industry’s success depends on the talent and commitment of those who make it possible,» highlights Daniela Álvarez, Sustainability Manager of ChileCarne.
An industry that grows with its people
The sector’s growth has gone hand in hand with ongoing efforts to improve working conditions and promote safer, more inclusive, and well-being-oriented work environments.
This commitment was made visible in the 2025 Pork Sector Clean Production Agreement (APL) Impact Report, which incorporated measures to improve social sustainability on farms through policies to promote non-discrimination, risk prevention, training, and worker well-being.
One of the most significant advances is the consolidation of labor policies aimed at promoting respectful and inclusive work environments. By the end of the process, all participating companies had a non-discrimination policy, a major step in formalizing these commitments.
The outcomes also show concrete improvements in occupational safety. Between 2021 and 2024, the average accident rate dropped 27%, from 6.35 to 4.66 accidents per 100 workers. In addition, all participating companies implemented risk prevention plans, thereby strengthening a culture of prevention in their operations.
In terms of equality, female participation continues to grow, especially in leadership roles. Currently, between 43% and 45% of leadership positions are held by women, while they fill around 28% of administrative roles, showcasing sustained progress towards more diverse teams.
Growth in permanent employment is also notable. Between 2021 and 2024, the 136 participating farms increased their permanent staff by 25%, going from 1,684 to 2,109 people. Although the workforce remains predominantly male, women participation continues to grow, showing a positive transformation in the sector.
Stories that showcase the industry’s commitment
Figures show the economic and social impact of the sector, but the stories of the people behind it best showcase its contribution.
In the swine sector, it is common to find workers who have built a career within the same company, growing professionally, and passing on their experience to new generations. At the same time, more and more women and young people are joining an industry that is constantly evolving, incorporating new technologies, higher sustainability standards, and a culture of continuous improvement.
That is the case of Claudia Orellana, who joined the packaging area of Maxagro’s processing plant in 2021, with a clear goal: finding job stability to provide a better future for her daughter.
With effort, commitment, and a constant willingness to learn, she acquired new skills and adapted to the high standards of quality, hygiene, and safety that characterize the sector. Today she is part of the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee and also helps coordinate tasks in her unit and onboard new workers.
«I joined the company looking for stability for my family and found an opportunity to grow. Over time, I have learned a lot, taken on new responsibilities, and been able to demonstrate my capabilities. Today I am motivated to continue developing and sharing my experience with those who are just starting out, because we all contribute to making the work better every day,» she says.
Miquel Colomer, Head of Outreach programs at Agrosuper, shares a similar experience. He notes that joining the company allowed him to become part of a dynamic and innovative industry, in a company with a proven track record and a long-term vision. During his time with the organization, he has had the opportunity to grow professionally through continuing education, collaborative work, and the possibility of contributing from his area to the company’s sustainable growth. Miquel also values Agrosuper’s commitment to the well-being of people and communities, career development opportunities, and strengthening of a culture based on trust, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging.
«I was motivated by the chance of being part of a very relevant, dynamic, and innovative industry. Agrosuper in particular, is a very ethical company. By this I mean that it ensures optimal performance in financial, environmental, and social aspects, which also translates into an ongoing commitment with the care and well-being of its people and the community. I would particularly highlight how much they care to instill the company culture in their people, which means fostering commitment, trust, and camaraderie. At the same time, they provide the necessary tools to grow and contribute to the success of a company that is committed to sustainable growth,» he concludes.
The career path of Diego Donoso, Production Manager at Agrícola Chorombo, also reflects the professional development opportunities offered by the sector. He has been with the company for nearly 20 years, working in different areas, acquiring new knowledge, and taking on greater responsibilities until he assumed a decision-making role. Based on his experience, he underscores that the incorporation of new technologies and process lines not only strengthens the operation but also creates new job and growth opportunities for employees.
«One of the key strengths of the sector is the possibility for continuous growth. The addition of new machinery and process lines creates more opportunities for people to grow within the company. Also, the stability that the industry provides over the years is particularly important. Since pork is one of the most consumed proteins, there is always a demand that keeps the source of employment alive,» he points out.
Thousands of people like Claudia, Miquel, and Diego have found in the swine industry an opportunity to build a career, access ongoing training, and plan their career path. Their stories reflect that the industry’s growth is not only measured by its production or exports, but also by its ability to create quality jobs, strengthen local economies, and contribute to the well-being of the families and communities around it.
«The sector’s growth must always go hand in hand with people’s growth. Investing in training, safety, well-being, and inclusion ensures the future of the swine sector and contributes to the sustainable development of the territories where we operate. That will remain one of our main commitments,» concludes Daniela Álvarez.
Beyond production figures, exports, or technological advances, Chile’s swine industry has grown thanks to its people. They are the ones driving innovation, raising quality standards, and contributing to building an increasingly competitive and sustainable sector. Strengthening their development, well-being, and opportunities will continue to be a key factor in facing future challenges and keep contributing to Chile’s social and economic growth.
