According to forecasts from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Brazil’s swine production is expected to grow by 3.2% to 50.4 million head in 2026. This positive outlook is driven by strong demand on international markets, stable domestic consumption, record corn and soybean harvests, and the depreciation of the domestic currency, which makes Brazilian pork more competitive globally.
Following a year of historically high profit margins for producers, 2026 is also expected to be a profitable year for the industry. Lower feed costs and rising demand are encouraging production expansion.
The number of pigs sent for slaughter is projected to increase by 3% to 49.2 million head. Most production remains concentrated in the southern states of the country. According to Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture (MAPA), 73.4% of all slaughter in 2025 took place in this region. The state of Santa Catarina accounted for the largest share (32.3%), followed by Paraná (21%) and Rio Grande do Sul (20%).
Total pork production in 2026 is expected to rise by 3% to 4.9 million metric tons carcass weight equivalent. Increased domestic consumption and ongoing diversification of export markets are expected to further support production growth.
Domestic pork consumption is also projected to rise slightly. In 2026 it may increase by about 1% to 3.07 million metric tons, driven by improved product availability and lower pork prices.
Most of the additional production will be directed toward export markets. Brazil is already the third-largest pork exporter in the world, and according to USDA forecasts it will maintain this position in 2026. Exports are expected to grow by 7% to 1.83 million metric tons, with shipments accounting for about 37% of total production.
Export growth will be supported by steady global demand, the opening of new markets, expanded shipments to traditional importers, and Brazil’s favorable sanitary status compared with competitors facing African swine fever challenges, particularly in Europe.
PigUA.info based on materials from pig333.com