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The EU has maintained its position as the world’s largest pork exporter, although the gap with the US has gradually narrowed. According to Rabobank's World Pork Map 2026, structural challenges in the EU – such as tightening environmental regulations, stricter animal welfare requirements, and rising production costs – are expected to constrain growth. As a result, the EU is likely to gradually lose its leading position, with the US emerging as the largest global exporter over time. However, ongoing trade tensions between the US and China have supported European export competitiveness and temporarily slowed this shift.
Brazil’s role in global pork trade has also become increasingly entrenched. Brazilian exports expanded significantly in 2022 and 2023, driven by strong Chinese demand and a clear cost advantage. More recently, however, China’s declining import demand has prompted Brazil to actively diversify its export destinations. The Philippines has emerged as Brazil’s largest export market, with shipments rising by more than 30% in 2025, supported by strong import demand linked to domestic supply constraints and disease-related losses. This underscores Brazil’s growing success in repositioning itself toward emerging markets and reducing its dependence on China.
August 27, 2026/ Rabobank.
https://www.rabobank.com/
