Due to few farm animals, meat production is falling rapidly in the European Union

In 2023, both pork and beef production appear likely to fall to their lowest levels in over a decade. At least this is the result of preliminary data from the Statistical Office of the European Union (Eurostat), especially regarding the pig market. 14.5 million pigs less As a result, in the first three quarters of 2023, a total of only 162.5 million pigs were slaughtered in 27 Member States. This is by 14.5 million pieces, or 8.2%. less than in the same period last year. Pork production decreased by 7.7%. up to 15.24 million tons. Even if the decline could ease somewhat by the end of the year, production is likely to fall below the level of 21 million tonnes last seen in 2009. The lower supply has so far been compensated by a noticeable decline in demand for pork in the EU, also among recipients on the world market. From January to September, pork exports to third countries decreased by over 800,000. tons of slaughter weight, i.e. by 20%. compared to the same period last year. ...