EU pork production expected to decline by 2027
Pork production in the European Union is expected to decline in 2027 amid a smaller pig herd and weaker sector profitability. According to FAS USDA, EU hog slaughter is forecast to fall by 0.52% to around 229.3 mln head.
The total pig herd could decrease by 0.62% to 129 mln head. This would mark the lowest level on record and continue the structural contraction of the European pig sector.
One of the main factors is the decline in piglet prices in 2026 due to weaker demand from Spain’s pork industry. Lower prices are weighing on the profitability of breeding farms and could lead to a reduction in the sow herd and, consequently, lower piglet production.
The sharpest declines in piglet production are expected in Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark and Hungary. The largest reductions in slaughter volumes are forecast in Spain and Germany.
USDA notes that the sector continues to adjust to a prolonged period of weak profitability, tighter environmental requirements and broader structural changes. A further decline in pig numbers could tighten pork supplies in the EU market and provide support to prices.
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