March 21, 2022

Mexico's pork production rose 2.1% last year

Pork production in Mexico had increased by 2.1%, from 1,652,362 tonnes to 1,686,798 tonnes in 2021, according to the latest figures on the Mexican swine industry published by the Mexican Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Pork imports reached a record level of 1.383 million tonnes, 26.4% higher than in 2020 (1.094 million tonnes), with the main supplier being the United States. Mexico surpassed China for the first time in becoming the US' leading buyer of pork. Mexico's exports decreased by 5.8% compared to 2020, from 276 thousand tonnes to 260 thousand tonnes.

The increase in production and imports is reflected in the increase in per capita consumption, which is estimated at 19.4kg/inhabitant for 2021, representing a growth of 2.3% compared to 2020 (19kg/inhabitant).

As for hog prices, it is found that these increased throughout 2021, reaching levels well above those recorded in the last four years.

Given the consideration of the aforementioned developments, Mexico's swine industry is seen to have a favorable performance in 2021, with the strength of demand and domestic consumption standing out, which was able to absorb both the increase in domestic production, as well as the record level of imports, a situation that also boosted prices.

- Pig333