2023 marked a significant turning point for the global pork market. Major global producers and consumers have seen significant changes due to previous health crises and current economic adjustments. This detailed analysis examines the production, consumption and export dynamics that characterize the sector in 2023.
World pork production
China, the European Union and the United States: Manufacturing giants
In 2023, China continued to dominate global pork production, accounting for almost half of global production. The European Union and the United States follow with 18.0% and 10.7% of global production, respectively. These figures show not only the huge potential of China, but also the strategic distribution of production capacities on a global scale.
Canada and Vietnam: significant players
Behind these giants, Canada and Vietnam emerge as significant players, although their share of total production remains modest. With 1.8% of world production, Canada plays an important role in balancing the market, especially thanks to its high quality standards.
Global consumption and preferences
Overall consumption growth
Global pork consumption has increased by 14% since 2019, reaching 114 million tons of carcass equivalent in 2023. China remains the world’s largest consumer with a consumption of more than 50 million tons, which is a cultural and economic indicator of this product in the country.
Export dynamics and international competition
The European Union is losing ground
The European Union, historically the leader, saw its share in global exports decrease from 41.1% in 2019 to 31.0% in 2023. This decline is a sign of general market adjustments and new export strategies adopted by other countries.
The US and Brazil are on the rise
The US and Brazil are showing impressive growth in export volumes. Brazil has seen its exports grow by 64% since 2019, thanks in particular to competitive production costs and strategic investments. This dynamic positions Brazil as a serious competitor in Asian markets, traditionally dominated by Europe.
The role of France in the pork market
The third largest producer in the European Union
France ranks as the third largest pig producer in the European Union with an estimated herd of 13.2 million head in 2020. That figure includes 0.95 million sows and 7 million fattening pigs, underscoring the scale of its pork industry.
Production is concentrated in the Great West
More than 80% of French pork production is located in the far west of the country, a region that benefits from a favorable climate and agricultural resources for pig farming. With 57% of production, Brittany follows Pays de la Loire, Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Normandy. This regional concentration promotes logistical efficiency and the integration of production stages.
Farm structure and dominant model
In 2020, there were approximately 9,500 pig farms in France, each producing more than 300 pigs, representing 99% of national production. The broiler-finisher model dominates, representing 37% of the acreage and 58% of the pork cutters produced. This integrated model enables better control of quality and production costs.
Cuts and contribution to European production
France slaughtered around 23.3 million pigs in 2020 and produced 2.2 million tonnes of carcass equivalent, 9% of European production. Despite the significant decrease in the number of heads since 2000, the production volume remains relatively stable thanks to the increase in the average weight of slaughtered animals.
As the agricultural powerhouse of Europe, France plays an important role in the pork market, not only in terms of volume, but also in terms of innovative and sustainable agricultural practices. Its strategic position allows it to meet both domestic demands and the demands of export markets, while simultaneously facing modern economic and environmental challenges.
Forecasts and perspectives for 2024
Modest but optimistic forecasts
According to the USDA’s latest projections, export and consumption volumes are expected to remain stable through 2024, with modest growth expected. This trend reflects the stabilization of the market after the turbulence of previous years due to swine fever in China.
Challenges and opportunities ahead
The global pork market is subject to volatility due to health and economic factors. However, the continued adaptation of major players and the emergence of new markets in Asia offer opportunities for growth and restructuring of global supply chains.
A sector in constant evolution
The pork market in 2023 perfectly illustrates the complexity and dynamics of global agricultural markets. Between health concerns and economic regulations, market players must navigate an ever-evolving environment while anticipating future trends to remain competitive. This analysis highlights the current forces and strategies to consider to maintain balance and stimulate growth in the global agri-food sector.