October 4, 2022

Expected drop in numbers of Ukrainian cattle, swine this year

Ukraine's cattle and swine numbers are expected to decrease significantly in 2022, driven by the war-related economic downturn, according to a recent GAIN report from the United States Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service.

Pork production is expected to show a decrease, while 2022 beef production is expected to show a short-term spike. Production of both proteins is expected to drop in 2023. Ukraine will maintain rather significant pork imports in 2022 to compensate for the meat shortage.

Total pork consumption is expected to decrease driven by the country's refugee crisis, disposable income drops and a weakened economy. Beef consumption will experience a short-lived increase and Ukraine will resume some live cattle and beef exports in the second half of 2022.

Ukraine's 2023 livestock number and slaughter are expected to remain at an all-time low.

- The Pig Site