Latvian Pork Prices Dip, But Remain Above EU Average
Latvia experienced a decrease in pork prices in December 2025, falling to €177.86 per 100 kilograms. This represents a 4% decline from November and a 15.1% drop compared to December 2024, according to data from the Market and Direct Support Department of the Ministry of Agriculture (ZM). Despite this decrease, Latvian pork prices remained 10.9% higher than the EU average in December.
EU-Wide Pork Price Trends
The broader European Union also saw a decline in pork prices in December 2025. Prices were down 5.8% compared to November and 16.7% compared to December 2024. This suggests a wider trend of softening pork prices across the region.
Regional Price Variations Within the EU
Price fluctuations weren’t uniform across the EU. Poland, Denmark, Lithuania, and Germany all reported price decreases in December 2025 compared to November. Specifically, Poland saw a 5.5% decrease, Denmark a 4.7% decrease, Lithuania a 3.9% decrease, and Germany a 3.4% decrease.
Looking at year-over-year changes, significant price drops were observed in Poland (15.9%), Lithuania and Germany (both 15.7%), and Denmark (5.3%). In December 2025, prices per 100 kilograms were: Germany (€170.24), Lithuania (€170.04), Denmark (€160.66), and Poland (€158.18).
Production and Trade Dynamics
Data indicates increased pork production across both the EU and Latvia. The number of animals slaughtered rose by 2.2% in the EU and 0.8% in Latvia during the first ten months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. The volume of pork produced increased by 3.6% in the EU and 2% in Latvia.
EU pork imports decreased by 0.2% during the first nine months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Imports increased from Norway (16.3%) and the United Kingdom (2.7%), but decreased from Chile (47.7%) and Switzerland (13.5%).
EU pork exports increased by 3% during the first nine months of 2025. Notable increases were seen in exports to Taiwan (80.4%), Vietnam (33.9%), and Côte d’Ivoire (22.4%). Conversely, exports decreased to Japan (19.6%), Australia (2.7%), the United Kingdom (2%), the United States (1.9%), and China (1.8%).
The main global exporters of pork products in the first nine months of 2025 were the EU, the United States, Brazil, and Canada.
Future Trends and Implications
The recent data suggests a complex interplay of factors influencing pork prices. Increased production, shifting trade patterns, and regional variations all contribute to the current market dynamics. Several trends are likely to shape the future of the pork industry.
Sustainability and Consumer Demand
Growing consumer awareness of sustainability and animal welfare is likely to drive demand for pork produced using more environmentally friendly and ethical practices. Producers who invest in these areas may gain a competitive advantage.
Trade Agreements and Market Access
Future trade agreements and changes in market access will significantly impact pork exports. Maintaining and expanding access to key markets like Asia will be crucial for EU and Latvian producers.
Disease Prevention and Biosecurity
Outbreaks of animal diseases, such as African Swine Fever, pose a significant threat to the pork industry. Strengthening biosecurity measures and investing in disease prevention will be essential to protect production and trade.
FAQ
Q: What caused the decrease in pork prices in Latvia in December 2025?
A: The decrease is attributed to a combination of factors, including broader EU trends and increased production.
Q: Is Latvian pork more expensive than pork from other EU countries?
A: Yes, in December 2025, Latvian pork prices were 10.9% higher than the EU average.
Q: Which countries saw the largest decrease in pork prices in December 2025?
A: Poland, Lithuania, and Germany experienced significant price decreases compared to both November and December 2024.
Q: What is the outlook for pork exports from the EU?
A: EU pork exports are increasing with significant growth in exports to Asian markets.
Did you understand? The EU is one of the world’s largest pork producers and exporters, playing a crucial role in global food security.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about market trends and trade developments to craft informed decisions about pork production and consumption.
Explore more articles on agricultural market trends and Latvian economic news on our website. Visit the Zemkopības ministrija website for further information.
