In the first year of operation, KAAA’s attention was directed solely towards teaching the art of pig raising. Lawrence and Horace Kadoorie knew that pigs grew more rapidly than any other farm animals, and so the farmers would have the satisfaction of nurturing their rapidly growing capital. The brothers’ decision was also helped by the fact that there was a steady demand for pork in Hong Kong. All of these were to become the driving force behind the growth of the pig industry in post-war Hong Kong.

Interest-free loan for pigsty construction

KAAA was insistent that pigsties ought not be built on private land as ownership transfers would affect the piggery. To help farmers qualify for these loans, the District Offices found and secured crown land for construction.

Free sows

Two to three sows would be offered as breeding stock.

Loan for pig feed purchase

Loans were re-paid once litters were mature and ready to be sold at market.

Pigs to supplement vegetable growing

KAAA helped poor vegetable growers exploit a secondary source of income through pig rearing. Farmers could feed their pigs with waste vegetables and use the pig manure as a fertiliser. Breeding and farm management were also part of KAAA’s concern. Check out the “Paak Ngau Shek Experimental Farm” section.

Boar-on-demand

For a small charge, the Government supplied boars to mate with sows. This service was also available from local boar keepers. In 1959, the Government introduced artificial insemination to better protect swine from contagious diseases.