Weak demand continues to pressure US pork prices

The US pork market remains under pressure from weak demand despite relatively stable production and lower-than-expected slaughter volumes. Market participants say many buyers built substantial inventories earlier in the year at high prices and have since had less need to return to the spot market.

Additional pressure on consumption is coming from stronger competition from chicken in both retail and foodservice channels. Analysts estimate that pork demand has weakened in 2026, while production remains close to year-ago levels.

Exports are providing some support to the market, but not enough to offset sluggish domestic demand. US pork exports totaled 224.3 thsd tons in July, down 6% year on year. However, shipments in January–July remained 2% above the same period last year.

Against the backdrop of weak demand, prices for frozen boneless pork loins in the US fell from $1.36/lb on August 7 to $1.25/lb on August 18. As of September 9, Platts assessed the price at $1.27/lb, although market participants attributed the slight increase mainly to higher offers from suppliers rather than stronger underlying demand.

Some seasonal support could come from Mexico in September, where pork demand traditionally increases ahead of Independence Day celebrations. However, analysts do not expect a significant price recovery through the end of the year, as weak demand remains the main factor weighing on the US pork market.

Tags: pork, prices, USA