November 14, 2023

UK pork imports in August increased as pig population dropped to record low

The United Kingdom's pork production continues to be impacted by the market conditions of the past two years as domestic supplies remain tight, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

Total pork imports to the UK in August were recorded at 65,600 tonnes; this is an increase of 230 tonnes compared with the previous month. Compared with August 2022, volumes have grown by 4,700 tonnes. After being in decline for the first four months of 2023, imports have witnessed year-on-year growth since May.

The English pig population is currently at its lowest in over a decade.

Imports of fresh and frozen product and bacon increased. However, sausages and processed pork imports declined month-on-month and year-on-year.

Total fresh and frozen pork imports have seen the largest volume gain, up 23% year-on-year to 28,400 tonnes.

The bacon category also recorded an increase of 12% year-on-year, totalling 15,500 tonnes and has resulted in the category increasing its market share of UK imports to 24%.

Imports of higher-value products could dampen the market sentiment further.

- AHDB