24 December 2024

2 minute read

By: Global Ag Media

In 2023, EU piglet production reached a record low, while feed prices fell, and the demand for piglets rose, according to a recent US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Global Agricultural Information Network (GAIN) report.

Record piglet prices tempted breeders to expand their sow stock during 2023. Because of the larger sow herd at the start of this year, the pig crop will rebound in 2024. This cycle is anticipated to reach a new record low in 2025.

In line with the pig crop trend, slaughter is forecast to increase by 0.9% this year and anticipated to fall by 1.7% next year. The trade of live swine plays a minor role in the total swine balance of EU.

This year, EU pork production is reinforced by higher weights at slaughter. EU pork production is forecast to increase by 2.0% in 2024 and decline by 1.7% in 2025. An additional volume of pork is mainly projected to be produced in Spain, destined for exports to EU and third country markets, and in Central Europe, most consumed domestically.

EU pork consumption is slightly increasing in Central and Southern Europe. However, both domestic consumption and exports will not be able to absorb the increased supply. The oversupply of pork is anticipated to increase competition and lower prices. These lower prices could improve the competitiveness of EU pork at the global market.