🚨 EU Pork Trade is Shrinking – Where Should Traders Turn?

Wednesday May 14, 2025

The EU Pork Trade is Shrinking. What's Next for Traders?

The Meat Trader’s Journal #34

This is something that has been worrying me for a while. So, I want to share my thoughts and hear your opinion. Where do you stand? How are you pivoting?

📉 EU pork consumption is declining – down 0.4% per year, with per capita intake projected to hit 30kg by 2035.

🚫 Production is expected to fall – a 0.5% annual decline, driven by sustainability concerns, shifting consumer habits, and growing societal criticism of pork.

🌎 Exports are losing ground – China and Vietnam are rebuilding their domestic supply. The UK may replace China as the EU’s biggest buyer, but even UK demand is set to decline.

ASF Impact: pork imports in the Philippines are expected to reach 510,000 metric tons in 2025, up over 6% from 2024. Hog repopulation efforts are slow, and recovery remains uncertain.

📊 Global market share is shrinking – the EU’s hold on world pork trade will drop from 32% to 29% by 2035.

💰 Prices remain uncertain – Pork prices remain high; future trends are still uncertain.

So, what does this mean for traders who rely on European suppliers?

We need to think ahead. If Europe is losing its competitive edge, where do we turn?

Other Markets in a Better Position?

While the EU faces challenges, several global pork markets are in a stronger position:

🔹 United States – Pork production is stable, and trade opportunities with China may increase due to ongoing EU-China tensions. (Read more)

🔹 Brazil – Expanding exports to Asia, with the Philippines increasing its imports by 85%. Strategic investments are also strengthening Brazil’s presence in China.

🔹 China – Domestic production is recovering, reducing import demand. However, trade policies, such as anti-dumping measures against EU pork, could be still reshaping strategies.

🔹 Southeast Asia – Pork demand is rising, especially in Vietnam and the Philippines, due to economic growth, and dietary preferences, and in some cases ASF disease that is affecting their country.

Strategic Considerations for Traders

✅ Diversify Supply Chains – U.S., Brazil, and Southeast Asia are strong alternatives to mitigate EU supply risks.
✅ Monitor Trade Policies – Stay updated on China’s potential anti-dumping measures against EU pork.
✅ Invest in Market Research – Understanding local regulations and preferences is critical for successful expansion.

The Bottom Line?

The EU isn’t disappearing from pork trade, but it’s no longer the undisputed leader. Traders who adapt will survive. Those who stay locked in old supply chains? Not so much.

We’re at a turning point. How do we stay ahead?

Reply and let’s discuss.

Struggling to get sales in Asia? Let's Fix That!

With all these shifts in global trade, getting the right strategy is key. If you're struggling to secure deals in Asia, here’s how I can help:

✅ Exclusive List of 20 High-Quality Contacts
I’ve compiled a handpicked list of 20 key importers and distributors in a country of your choice. These are trusted players who are actively sourcing products. If you’re looking for a foothold in a new market, this list will save you months of effort.

I'm thrilled to announce that we are open to working with the Japanese market! If you have any need in Japan, send me a DM!

Get your Exclusive List Now

Subscribe to stay informed on the latest in Meat Trading and Food Tech.

See you in 2 weeks!

Warm regards, Laura.

Update your email preferences or unsubscribe here

202, 7, Majang-ro, 33-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, Seoul 04749

Want to go from outsider to insider in the global meat trade and food tech world?