Ukraine increases pork imports 15-fold in 2025 amid declining domestic production – analysts

Ukraine imported 30,800 tonnes of pork in 2025, a 15-fold increase compared with the previous year, the Ukrainian Agribusiness Club (UCAB) reported, citing customs statistics.

"The sharp rise in imports was a natural market response to a shortage of domestic raw materials. A decline in livestock numbers and the escalation of hostilities in the east of the country forced many enterprises to shut down, which led to higher prices for Ukrainian pork. At the same time, lower meat prices on foreign markets during the summer period made imports economically more attractive for stabilizing domestic demand," analysts said.

According to the data, total pork production in the country in 2025 amounted to 606,000 tonnes, down 10% compared with 2024 and 11% below the average level of the past five years. At the same time, total domestic consumption needs are estimated at 648,000 tonnes.

Ukraine's pig population as of the end of 2025 declined to 4.5 million head, down 12% year-on-year. The bulk of industrial livestock (64%) is concentrated in specialized enterprises, 2.9 million head, while households account for 1.6 million head.

"The sector continues to operate under extremely difficult conditions. In addition to wartime risks, producers are under pressure from rising production costs. Under these circumstances, the share of more price-competitive imports is increasing, although current supply volumes are still 25% below 2023 levels," UCAB emphasized.

Export activity remains limited: in 2025 Ukraine shipped just 2,200 tonnes of pork abroad (down 26%). The main destinations are countries in the Middle East (48.1%) and Asia (23.6%), while exports to African countries and Southeast Asia together account for about 17%.

As reported, agricultural sector experts expect that restoring the pig farming industry to pre-war levels will require not only improved security conditions but also the introduction of state support programs to rebuild industrial livestock in de-occupied regions.