German farmers abandon pig farming due to low prices and demand

The number of pigs on German farms has fallen to its lowest level in 25 years, and more farmers are abandoning them due to weak demand and low pork prices.

This year, the pork market in Germany has been hit by export disruptions caused by the spread of African swine fever (ASF), coronavirus lockdowns, and a general move away from eating meat.

The number of pigs on German farms in November 2021 decreased by 9.4% compared to last year and amounted to about 2.45 million animals.

Around 18,800 German farms were raising pigs in November, down 7.8% from last year. “Among the reasons are low retail and export demand, as well as low pork prices,” the German government said.

China and other buyers banned imports of German pork in September 2020 after the first case of ASF was confirmed in a wild boar in eastern Germany near the Polish border. Sales of German pork within Europe continue.

“The German government must develop a strategy to help farmers and prevent the loss of market share for their farmers compared to other countries,” said Thorsten Staak, head of the German pig breeders association.