AHDB: UK imports eased in 2025 despite external influences
Imports
Total UK pig meat import volumes fell by 5% (37,600 tonnes) year-on-year (YoY) to 752,500 tonnes in 2025 (incl. fresh and frozen, processed and offal), marking the lowest annual volume since 2021.
Germany recorded the sharpest decline, falling 26% (37,000 tonnes) YoY to 104,200 tonnes, largely due to shipment disruptions early in the year following a foot‑and‑mouth disease outbreak.
Meanwhile, Belgium recorded the strongest growth among EU suppliers, increasing shipments by 12% (6,200 tonnes) YoY to reach a total of 56,500 tonnes for the year.
The USA remained the largest non-EU supplier, although volumes were comparatively small. Imports from the USA declined by 28% (433 tonnes) YoY to total 1,100 tonnes in 2025.
Despite a significant fall in EU grade S reference prices during the latter part of 2025, this did not translate into a material increase in UK import volumes.
Monthly trade patterns show fluctuation throughout the year, with a modest uplift in October and November, likely reflecting seasonal demand ahead of Christmas.
However, December imports fell by 9% (5,800 tonnes) YoY, and both November and December volumes were lower than the previous four years.
This suggests that, despite the widening UK–EU price differential, demand for British product remained resilient.
Overall, Q4 imports fell by 7% (15,300 tonnes) YoY, underscoring the broader downward trend observed across 2025.
While import volumes declined overall, product shares remained broadly similar.
Fresh and frozen pork import volumes declined by 6% (19,500 tonnes) YoY, equalling 43% of total imports. Denmark, Belgium, Spain and Germany remained the principal suppliers.
Bacon imports fell by 3% (5,600 tonnes), representing 23% of volumes. Key suppliers were the Netherlands, Denmark and Ireland.
Sausages declined by 3% (4,600 tonnes) and accounted for 20% of imports, while processed pig meat fell 5% (4,900 tonnes), representing 12% of total volumes.
Offal recorded the steepest percentage decline, down 15% (3,000 tonnes), though it accounted for only 2% of the total import share.
Exports
UK pig meat exports increased by 3% (7,800 tonnes) YoY to stand at 306,200 tonnes in 2025.
This was spurred by a growth in domestic production and rising demand from key trade partners.
Coupled with slight reduction in overall average prices, the total value of UK pig meat exports fell by 5% to £491.6m.
China was the largest export destination in 2025, overtaking the EU in terms of volume. Shipments to China rose 13% (15,500 tonnes), totalling 135,600 tonnes, supported by trade tension between China and other trade partners.
Meanwhile, volumes to the EU declined by 5% (5,700 tonnes) to 119,500 tonnes.
Exports outside of these markets declined, driven largely by reductions to the Philippines (-9%). This trade continues to be affected by increasing competition from Brazil.
The affordability of Brazilian pork is appealing to price-sensitive Filipino consumers, which puts pressure on suppliers such as the UK, the USA and Canada.
Offal remained the largest export category, accounting for 48% of total volumes. Shipments rose 3% (4,400 tonnes) to 147,200 tonnes.
Fresh and frozen pork represented 42% of exports and increased 5% (5,800 tonnes) to 127,900 tonnes.
Sausage exports recorded the strongest growth, rising 11% (600 tonnes) YoY. In contrast, bacon and processed pig meat exports declined by 8% and 12%, respectively.
Looking ahead
Domestic production is expected to moderate over the coming years, partly reflecting a decline in the female breeding herd. Reduced sow numbers will likely tighten future output growth, potentially limiting future export volumes.
While export performance strengthened in 2025, this momentum may prove difficult to sustain if production tightens.
At the same time, China’s ongoing drive towards greater self-sufficiency also presents a risk.
If Chinese domestic output continues to stabilise, import demand may soften over time, reducing opportunities for UK exporters. European export prospects may also be limited by increased availability there.
Meanwhile, global export competition is intensifying. Brazil is expected to continue expanding pig meat production into 2026, moving away from China, but strengthening its presence elsewhere in Asia.
Increased Brazilian availability may increase competition for key destinations, especially if buyers remain highly price sensitive.
Although UK pig meat exports grew modestly in 2025, tightening domestic supplies, shifting Chinese demand and mounting global competition may point towards a more challenging trading environment ahead.
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