The Consorcio del Jamón Serrano Español (CJSE) has released export figures for Spanish cured hams and shoulders up to the second quarter of 2026, a period during which a total of 27,136.69 tonnes were exported, compared to 29,284.22 tonnes in the same period of 2025; representing a decrease of 7.33%.
On the other hand, the sector carried out exports for a total value of €331,560,995.09 during this period, 10.66% less than the previous year, when the figure stood at €371,103,719.29.
Furthermore, the overall average price per kilogram of ham decreased by 3.58% during this period, standing at €12.22 compared to €12.67/kg in 2025. Meanwhile, the average price in European Union countries stood at €11.58, compared to €13.81 in Third Countries, representing a decrease of 2.7% and 4.06% respectively.
“The second-quarter figures reflect a downward trend in cured ham exports, both in terms of volume, value, and average price. This performance must be analyzed in an especially complex international context, marked by various factors conditioning trade and consumption on a global scale, such as ASF, geopolitical tensions, and persistent inflation. These circumstances are affecting markets and largely explain the contraction recorded during this period,” points out Álvaro Díaz de Liaño.
EU vs. Third Countries
In global figures, European Union countries imported a total of 19,327.47 tonnes during this financial year, 4.26% less compared to the same period in 2025, while Third Countries registered a volume of 7,809.22 tonnes, representing a 14.15% decline. Thus, during the first six months of the year, the European Union accounted for 71.2% of cured ham exports, with the remaining 28.8% belonging to Third Countries.
In this regard, the CJSE notes that the sharper decline in Third Countries responds, among other factors, to greater exposure to increased transport costs and potential tariff barriers within a context of generalized inflation.
Strong Growth in the US Market
In this context, one of the fastest-growing countries during this period is the United States, which, in the words of Álvaro Díaz de Liaño, Marketing and Promotion Director of the Consorcio del Jamón Serrano Español:
“continues to consolidate its position as a high-interest market for Spanish cured ham. In the second quarter, exports to this destination recorded a growth of 42.40% in volume and 19.91% in value, figures that highlight the opportunities offered by the US market for the sector. However, we must closely monitor the evolution of trade policy and the potential impact that additional tariffs may have on our exports.”
Export Formats & Looking Ahead
Regarding formats, 81.76% of the pieces exported during this period correspond to the boneless format, whose value decreased by 9.95% and its volume by 5.63%. Meanwhile, the average price of boneless pieces stood at €12.39/kg, representing a 4.58% drop compared to 2025.
“This year 2026 presents itself as an especially challenging year. For this reason, at CJSE our objective is to join forces, generate stability, and support the entire sector in the face of current challenges. Collaboration and adaptability will be key to facing the coming months with guarantees,” concludes Álvaro Díaz de Liaño.
