Germany: Significant decrease in pig census in Baden-Württemberg

According to preliminary data from the Baden-Württemberg State Statistics Office, as of November 3, 2022, the pig census was at just over 1.3 million head. In absolute terms, the herd was down by some 161,700 head compared to the same month of the previous year. There has also been a significant decrease in the number of pig farms in the state, with only 1,600 (-12%). Decreases have been recorded in both breeding sows and finishing pigs. As of November 3, 2022, the breeding sow census was at just 102,800 head, down 17,900 (-15%) from the previous year. In particular, large farms with 250 or more breeding sows reduced their herd at an above-average rate (-13,600 animals; -23%). Also noteworthy is the low number of gilts on farms. The number of finishing pigs decreased by 91,000 head (-15%) compared ...