Consumption drives pork production, but imports and exports constrain the pig sector's growth

Among the positive developments, the organization noted that livestock production and slaughter have increased again, albeit at a more moderate pace. "We saw an increase of almost 3% in the number of animals slaughtered and meat production," they noted. This figure, while far from the historical average of 7%, is considered encouraging in a year of economic restructuring.

Consumption is the main driving force of the year.

One of the report's highlights was the domestic market's performance. According to Pormag, pork consumption ended the year with an average of 18.9 kilograms per capita, representing an 8.8% increase compared to the same period last year.

This figure is even more significant when compared to other types of meat: beef consumption increased by 3%, while poultry consumption increased by 5.6%. "This confirms that pork has proven to be the most competitive and most in-demand among consumers," the association emphasized.

Record import volumes are a major cause for concern.

On the other hand, imports are the most concerning . More than 53,000 tons of pork were imported into the country in 2025 , accounting for 6.5% of apparent consumption.

Pormag warned that this is the largest import volume in the last decade. However, they noted as an encouraging sign that monthly revenues began to decline toward the end of the year, partly due to the improved competitiveness of Argentine pork compared to Brazilian pork in dollar terms.

Export: the weakest link

The foreign trade front once again proved to be the sector's weakest link. Exports ended 2025 at 12,369 tonnes, a 15% decline compared to the same period last year.

"Without a doubt, this is the driver the sector needs to achieve sustainable growth," they emphasized. The trade balance clearly demonstrates this: while approximately 4,500 tons are imported monthly at average prices exceeding $3,200 per ton, exports barely reach 1,300 tons at prices barely exceeding $1,200.

Rising costs and price containment

Another key factor affecting the balance sheet was the sharp increase in production costs. According to Pormag, farm maintenance costs will increase by approximately 47% by 2025, while the maximum price for capons will increase by only 16%.

They warned that this combination of factors directly impacts profitability and could recur in 2026 unless the domestic market is relieved by increased exports.

2026 with open tasks

In its forecast for next year, the association expects a similar scenario: stable domestic consumption, but driven by purchasing power, pressure from imported meat, and growth in exports, although not at a pace fast enough to secure a foothold in new markets.

"The sector will continue to grow, almost exclusively due to the domestic market, but without addressing the challenges on the external front, it will be difficult to achieve sustainable development," they concluded.