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Irish pigmeat production rose by an estimated 4% during 2024, to approximately 310,000 tonnes, as both pig supplies and average carcass weights increased slightly. The rate of recovery gathered momentum as the year progressed, following a decline of 10% in 2023 caused by higher feed costs and depressed market prices. In 2025, Irish pigmeat production is expected to recover further, supported by a 4.9% increase in breeding sow numbers recorded in the June 2024 census.
Although market prices weakened somewhat over the final quarter of 2024, Irish E grade pig prices averaged €2.11 per kg deadweight (excluding VAT) for the year. Pig prices broadly matched 2023 levels and remained 18% ahead of the low levels recorded in 2022. Notably, Irish pig prices consistently exceeded the EU average pig price through the latter half of 2024. This may be partly attributable to steady demand from the domestic market and strong competition for Irish pig supplies.
The value of primary pigmeat exports grew by an estimated 7% to reach €490 million. This performance was fueled by a 7% increase in export volumes to approximately 200,000 tonnes, combined with slightly higher unit pricing.
Pigmeat exports to EU member states grew by 20% to reach a value of €110 million. Exports to Germany and Denmark were stable at €25 million and €20 million respectively, while trade with Poland more than doubled to €30 million. Exports to France and the Czech Republic also performed strongly.
International markets declined in significance during 2024. Irish primary pigmeat exports to China fell by 14% during 2024 to €95 million, although this was partially offset by a 40% increase in trade with Japan, which reached €35 million. However, lower exports were also recorded to the Philippines and South Korea, which were valued at €15 million and €5 million respectively. The value of primary pigmeat exports to Australia was 20% lower at €30 million. Interestingly, trade with the US market grew by 40% in 2024 to reach €25 million.
January 8, 2025/ Bord Bia Irish Food Board/ Ireland.
https://www.bordbia.ie/
