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Recap Spanish Hog Market 2022-2023

In 2022 and 2023, Spain's pig and pork production and export sectors experienced significant changes, influenced by various factors:

• animal welfare regulations

• disease outbreaks

• shifts in global demand

Pig Population and Production

In December 2023, Spain's pig population was reported at 34,451.65 thousand, showing a slight increase from previous years. The highest record was in December 2021 with 34,454.09 thousand pigs. However, the production of pork in the first quarter of 2023 decreased by 6% compared to the same period in the previous year. This decline continued into the first half of 2023, with a 9.4% decrease in pork volume produced compared to the same period previous year.

Exports

Spain's pork exports experienced a decline in 2023. The total pork and prepared products exported to third countries was 16% less than in 2022. This marked the second consecutive year of decreases in exports after a peak in 2021. China remained the leading buyer, despite a 17% reduction in imports from Spain compared to 2022. Other significant markets like Japan, the Philippines, South Korea, and Great Britain also saw changes in their import volumes from Spain.

Despite the decrease in volume, the value of Spanish pork exports rose by 13.5% in the first half of 2023 due to an increase in the pork unit value, which compensated for the 9% decline in volume.

Challenges and Adjustments

The Spanish pig sector faced several challenges in 2022 and 2023, including outbreaks of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) and the implementation of new EU regulations on animal welfare. These factors, along with high input costs and a reduction in pork exports to non-EU markets, mainly China, contributed to a forecasted decline in the swine herd, sow numbers, and pig crop in Spain for 2023 and 2024.

The Spanish Royal Decree 159/2023 on Animal Welfare introduced stricter requirements for sows and pigs than the existing EU regulation, aiming to improve animal welfare standards. This legislation is expected to lead to a restructuring of the swine sector, with potential impacts on sow herd sizes, slaughter numbers, and overall pork production.

We can conclude:

The Spanish pig and pork production sectors are undergoing significant changes due to internal and external pressures: disease outbreaks, regulatory changes, and shifts in global market demand.

While the pig population remains high, production and export volumes have seen declines, prompting adjustments within the industry to adapt to new challenges and regulations.

3 Things Every Importer Should Know Before Starting

Before becoming a pork meat importer, there are several key things you should know based on the search results:

1. Understanding the Process: Buying pork in bulk involves dealing with farmers and processors. It's essential to understand terms and industry jargon to communicate more efficiently among this part of the supply chain.

2. Meat Quality: The quality of meat can vary significantly according to cultures, geography, and meat category and genetics. A good understanding of differences and price dynamics are very important for importing success.

3. Cost Considerations: When purchasing pork cuts, factors like piece weight, processing time/ fees, and the type of cuts will affect the final cost. Understanding these costs and what you are getting back in terms of meat yield is crucial before making a purchase.

Pork Meat importers face also challenges to market access, disease management, biosecurity measures, economic fluctuations, and production costs. Being aware of these factors also will help to future importers to develop strategies to mitigate risks and succeed in the competitive pork meat importing business.

Did you know…?🔍

Camel Meat is not only a delicacy in some parts of the world but also known for its potential health benefits?

Camel meat is considered a delicacy in some parts of the world, including the Middle East and Africa. Not only is it prized for its taste, but camel meat is also known for being lean, rich in protein, and lower in cholesterol compared to beef and lamb. Additionally, it's packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy alternative for meat consumers.

Camel meat plays a significant role in social and festive occasions in many cultures, often served at weddings, festivals, and other celebrations. Its preparation and consumption are deeply embedded in the culinary traditions of these regions.

 Key regions and cultures where camel meat is part of the diet:

• Middle East: In countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman, camel meat is a traditional food. It is often prepared during special occasions and festivals, such as Eid al-Adha, where it might be cooked as a delicacy or served in dishes like stews and kebabs.

• North Africa: In countries like Egypt, Libya, Sudan, and Morocco, camel meat is consumed, especially in areas where other livestock might not easily thrive. It can be found in various traditional dishes, sometimes ground and seasoned or cooked in tagines.

• East Africa: Countries like Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Djibouti have communities that include camel meat in their diets. It's not uncommon to find it in markets and served in homes, roasted or stewed.

• Central Asia: In countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, camel meat is eaten, though it is not as common as other meats. It can be used in traditional dishes and is sometimes featured in celebratory meals.

• Australia: Australia has a significant population of feral camels. In recent years, there has been an interest in utilizing these camels for meat, which is marketed as a lean, healthy alternative to more traditional meats.

• Pakistan and India: In specific regions, particularly in the desert areas of Rajasthan and in parts of Pakistan, camel meat is part of the local cuisine. It might be used in curries and other local dishes.

There is a demand for camel meat in various countries, driven by cultural preferences, dietary practices, and immigrant populations seeking traditional foods. Below there are some of the countries known to import camel meat:

• Middle Eastern Countries: United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait import camel meat to supplement their domestic supply and meet the demand, especially during religious festivals and cultural celebrations.

• North African Countries: Countries like Egypt and Libya, despite having their own camel populations, import camel meat to fulfill the demand that exceeds local supply.

• European Countries: In Europe, countries with significant Muslim or African immigrant populations, such as France, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands, import camel meat to cater to the culinary preferences of these communities.

• Asian Countries: Some countries in Asia with Muslim-majority populations, such as Malaysia and Indonesia, import camel meat for consumption, particularly during religious occasions.

• North America: In the United States and Canada, camel meat is imported in smaller quantities, targeting niche markets, including Middle Eastern and African communities, as well as consumers interested in exotic meats or following a paleo diet.

Let’s note that the taste of camel meat is often described as slightly sweet and savory, with a tender texture similar to beef but with a unique flavor.

Have you ever tried camel meat? If so, in where? Share your experience.

One last thing…

If you are aiming to strengthen your business foothold in the APAC Market in this areas:

• Market Expansion and helping with client Acquisition

• New Market Fit with product/specification development

• Sales Growth and Price Optimization with Market Intel

• Sales Training and objection ideation to gain new clients

There are 3 ways that Meat Trading Hub (MTH) can help you:

✅Market Advisory 1:1

✅Collaborative Partnership

✅On-line and off-line Training sessions to elevate export/sales team

Schedule a discovery call and let’s explore opportunities together!

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