RaboBank: Global Pork Industry Takes Cautious Approach to Growth

Global pork production is expected to rise in the first half of 2026, despite trade volatility stemming from shifting import policies and swine disease pressures.

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS)New research from Rabobank says the global pork industry is taking a cautious approach to growth. This year, researchers say producers are refocusing on productivity and cost control.

Production is expected to rise in the first half of the year, led by modest gains in the United States, Europe, China, and Brazil, before slowing in the second half due to herd reductions, especially in China and Spain.

Trade remains volatile amid shifting import policies and disease pressures, including African Swine Fever and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), keeping expansion plans in check.

Related Stories
Jake Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance says recent futures market moves are leaving cattle producers unsure about price trends.
Drought remains a major risk, with the ERS reporting that 98 percent of the U.S. cotton production area was affected by drought in early May.
Canadian industry leaders argue the tax policies cited by U.S. officials are similar to exemptions already used by American growers.
Despite tighter supplies, U.S. wheat exports continue trending higher as international buyers seek consistent quality and reliable service.
Higher placements lifted feedlot inventories, but slower marketings point to continued tightness in finished cattle movement.
Tight cattle supplies should keep beef prices supported, while dairy, pork, and poultry are poised for greater production growth.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

For many in the ag community, these food safety tips might be common knowledge. However, taking the extra precaution is worth avoiding a ‘spoiled’ summertime outing!
According to surveys by the University of Georgia in 2015, feral hogs caused approximately $100 million in agricultural damage just in that state. They continue to be a costly problem for rural communities across the state, reports Damon Jones of Georgia Farm Monitor.
Chaley Harney, Executive Director of the Montana Beef Council, and Jonna Jones, Director of Marketing for Wentana, LLC, say it’s a great time for both cattle producers and beef consumers to celebrate one of America’s favorite proteins.
Don’t miss the buzz of this episode of Where the Food Comes From, airing this Friday at 9:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. only on RFD-TV!
Thu, 5/11 – 10 PM ET | 9 PM CT | 8 PM MT | 7 PM PT
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.