German pig population stable, but not quite

The German pig population has slightly decreased as of November 3, 2024 compared to last year. In total, the pig population decreased by 0.2%. This amounts to a decrease of 39,400 animals, bringing the total to 21.2 million pigs. According to the German statistical office Destatis, this means the pig population remains virtually stable.

A closer look at the numbers reveals a temporary balance. The meat pig population was 1.8% higher as of early November compared to a year ago. In total, the meat pig population increased by 170,000 pigs. However, the number of piglets in Germany decreased by 0.9%, or 182,000 pigs. This indicates that the German pig population is expected to decline further in the coming months.

Consolidation in the German market remains a clear trend. As of November 3, Germany had 15,600 pig farms. This is a decrease of 3.4% compared to the previous year, resulting in 600 fewer farms. Compared to 2022, the number of pigs decreased by 7.8%, or 1,300 farms. In that year, the country had 16,900 pigs.

Matthijs Bremer

Matthijs Bremer is a market specialist in pork, beef, and poultry meat at DCA Market Intelligence. He also monitors the protein transition, keeping an eye on developments in cultured meat and meat substitutes.

m.bremer@farmerbusiness.com