EU COM estimates EU pork market in 2024 unchanged at previous year's level
In its latest May 24 issue, the EU Commission estimates that the pork market in 2024 will be little changed from previous, more optimistic forecasts. In 2023, production fell by an average of -6.6 %. The largest declines were observed in Denmark (-19.9%), the Netherlands (-13%) and Germany (-6.8%).
Based on the livestock census results, a slight increase in sow numbers can be expectedfor 2024, but the consequences of higher piglet numbers will not be felt until later in the year, when slaughter numbers will tend to rise.
Pork production in the EU domestic market is estimated at around 20.8 million tons (-0.4%) in 2024, marginally lower than in the previous year. Consumption is also expected to be insignificantly higher compared to 2023 at around 17.95 million tons (+0.2%).
Exports are downgraded to 2.9 million tons (-4%). The high EU price level reduces competitiveness on international markets compared to cheaper competitors.
The degree of self-sufficiency remains unchanged at around 116%.
