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In January-November 2024, Ukraine imported 2.15 thousand tonnes of chilled and frozen pig meat, while exports amounted to 2.75 thousand tonnes. Thus, the country retains the status of a net exporter of this product, according to the Pig Producers of Ukraine Association, citing preliminary customs statistics.
According to the analysts of the Association of Ukrainian Pork Producers, imports for this period are comparable to the monthly volumes of pork supplies in September or October, but are 0.6 thousand tonnes less than exports. The positive foreign trade balance for this type of product amounted to almost USD 1.4 million in foreign currency terms.
Export growth
Despite the fact that pork exports remain relatively modest compared to domestic supply (0.6% of total and 0.8% of industrial supply), this year’s volumes are three times higher than last year. By the end of 2024, exports are expected to reach about 3 thousand tonnes, which is close to the level of 2021, when 3.8 thousand tonnes were sold.
Market outlook
The UBA notes that this year’s export figures were made possible by a favourable price situation in the domestic market. At the same time, changes in the domestic price balance could lead to an increase in imports.
Nevertheless, the growth in foreign pork supplies demonstrates Ukraine’s potential in this sector and maintains a positive trend for export development.
