Increase in EU pork exports in the first quarter of 2025

Export Leaders: Spain Leads

Spain maintains its position as the leading pork exporter among EU countries , accounting for more than one-third of total exports. In the first quarter of 2025, Spanish producers increased shipment volumes by 12% compared to the previous year, highlighting their competitiveness and ability to adapt to changing market conditions. Spanish pork is in high demand due to its quality and variety, making it attractive to buyers from various countries.

Germany: Decline in Export Volumes

Despite Germany's traditionally strong position in pork production in Europe, it faced significant challenges in the first quarter of 2025. Due to restrictions related to the spread of foot-and-mouth disease, German pork export volumes fell by almost a third compared to the previous year, negatively impacting its competitiveness. As a result, Germany fell to sixth place among pork exporters to the EU, behind the Netherlands and Denmark, which also increased their shipment volumes.

Export Structure: Frozen Pork Priority

Frozen pork accounted for the largest export volumes, amounting to approximately 432,000 tonnes. Combined with offal, these two product groups accounted for approximately 72% of total EU pork exports. This underscores the continued interest in frozen products, which have a long shelf life and are easy to transport.

Key Markets: China and Others

China remains the largest buyer of European pork, driven by strong demand for meat products in the country. It is followed by the United Kingdom , the Philippines, and Japan , which also actively purchase pork from the EU. The increase in supplies to these countries is due to growing demand for meat products and improved trade relations between the EU and these regions.

Therefore, the first quarter of 2025 was a successful period for pork exports for the European Union. Spain continues to lead confidently, while Germany faces challenges that may impact its position in the future. Strong demand from key markets such as China and the UK creates opportunities for further growth and development of the European pig sector.