China returns to black pork

Consumers in China are increasing demand for traditional black pork, long associated with the country’s culinary heritage.

According to producers cited by Reuters, Chinese consumers are not deterred by the fact that “wagyu pork” can sometimes be up to four times more expensive than meat from white pig breeds.

Rising interest in black pigs has provided support to Chinese producers amid falling prices, oversupply, and declining profitability in the sector.

“Black pigs are the only way out for pig producers, especially small and medium-sized ones that have been under pressure due to falling prices for white pork,” said Gao Qinxue, director of the China Association of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine.

Large Chinese producers are also entering this segment. Wen Foodstuff aims to become China’s No.1 black pork brand and plans to increase the share of black pigs to 5% of its herd by 2027. Another major pork producer, New Hope, has also announced plans to expand its herd by 150,000 black pigs.

According to analysts, the number of black pigs is expected to rise to 30–32 million head by the end of 2026, or about 5% of China’s total pig population.

At the same time, demand for premium pork in the Chinese market exceeds supply by approximately 15–20%.

Tags: China, pork