According to Rabobank’s World Pork Map 2026, global pork trade is becoming increasingly fragmented and competitive.
Following the sharp decline in pork production in China due to African swine fever between 2018 and 2021, Chinese demand largely shaped global trade flows. However, as domestic production recovered, the situation changed.
Since 2024, global trade volumes have stabilised at a lower level, while the market has become more balanced, although less dynamic.
China’s Share of Global Imports Falls to 23%
China remains the world’s largest importer of pork and offal combined, but its role has declined significantly.
In 2021, the country accounted for 43% of global imports, while by 2025 its share had fallen to 23%.
The decline in demand for pork meat itself has been particularly pronounced. According to Rabobank, this segment of Chinese imports has undergone a structural decline, creating more room for other major markets.
Mexico’s Role Strengthens Amid Domestic Supply Constraints
Against this backdrop, Mexico has become the world’s largest importer of pork meat, excluding offal.
Rabobank attributes the sharp increase in imports primarily to constraints on domestic supply, which have made the country increasingly reliant on foreign purchases to meet demand.
The growth of the Mexican market has primarily benefited key suppliers — the United States, Canada and Brazil.
Global pork trade is therefore becoming less dependent on a single dominant buyer. China’s declining role and the growing importance of markets such as Mexico are creating a more diversified structure of international trade while also intensifying competition among exporting countries.
PigUA.info, based on materials from Rabobank