Livestock census result 01. 04.2017: Denmark increases sow farming again
High pig and piglet prices, also in Denmark, are prompting sow farmers in particularto increasetheir sow herds, which were significantly reduced last year . In contrast, Danish fattening pig herds continue to decline.
The causes of this development have been the same for years. The scarce availability of land and the associated restrictions on livestock farming are relatively more favorable for piglet production than for pig fattening. In addition, Denmark has built up a powerful organization for piglet exports, which ensures the sale of the Danish piglet surplus, which has now grown to 40%.
The large sow herds have grown particularly strongly. The average herd now numbers around 850 animals. By comparison, the Netherlands has around 550 and Germany has just reached the 200 mark.
Although the vast majority of farrowing exports go to Germany, the increase is only slight. The Danes are exporting increasing quantities to Poland. The large Polish piglet deficit is due to a 50% reduction in small-scale sow farming since joining the EU in 2004.
The restructuring process is expected to continue in the future due to the further tightening of animal husbandry. Denmark will continue to focus on piglet rather than fattening pig farming.
When it comes to animal husbandry with high standards of animal welfare, Denmark is almost always in the top position. This is no coincidence, as the pork industry accounts for a significant 15% of Denmark's gross national product.
