Pigmeat Reflection Group issues recommendations to improve the sustainability of the European pig industry

The Pigmeat Reflection Group was formed in 2022 to discuss the challenges facing the pork sector in the EU. The sector has been struggling for months due to factors such as  COVID-19 restrictions , reduced pork exports to  China , African swine fever and rising raw material costs. The group brought together representatives of EU Member States, Commission officials (from the Directorates for Agriculture, Health, Competition and Environment), key stakeholders from farmers' associations and non-governmental organizations, and scientific experts.

A total of seven meetings took place, which culminated in the preparation of a report, which was published in January 2023. The report provides an overview of the situation in the pork market and provides recommendations on the socio-economic dynamics of the sector, environment and climate. concerns, animal health and animal welfare to improve the sustainability of the industry.

Pigmeat Reflection Group recommendations included:

Promoting collaboration between and between producers and other stages of the supply chain to better integrate societal expectations for improved sustainability, better learning and knowledge sharing.

Diversify EU export markets and reduce dependence on multiple destinations, in particular unreliable partners.

Development of manure processing and efficient use of organic fertilizers.

Support for local biogas solutions based on manure, residues and waste, which not only attract the pig industry, but also local communities.

Support for the development of vaccines for wild and farm pigs.

More interaction with third countries, including international bodies such as the WTO and WOAH, to ensure that the principle of EU regionalization is recognized.

Support actions, including research, to develop and implement systems with a high level of animal welfare, respecting the behavioral needs of pigs and reducing the use of antibiotics.