Farms.com Home   Ag Industry News

U.S. Hog Report Shows Rising Supply Pressure

Jul 01, 2025
By Farms.com

Breeding Stock Falls as Litter Size Reaches Record Levels

USDA’s latest Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report, released June 26, 2025, reveals a 1% increase in total hog inventory compared to March. At 75.1 million, this is the highest June figure since 2020. However, pigs kept for breeding dropped to 5.98 million—the lowest in ten years.

USDA estimates pigs saved per litter at 11.7, a record high for the second quarter. This shows productivity gains even as the breeding herd shrinks. Slaughter data from May confirms these trends, with 10.4 million hogs processed and over 2.2 billion pounds of pork produced—a 3% year-over-year rise.

Domestic pork disappearance remains stable over the decades. Although U.S. consumers are eating slightly more pork per person than in the past, demand growth is limited. Still, pork is gaining appeal as a cheaper alternative to beef.

U.S. pork exports added significant value in 2024, with $66.53 per head attributed to foreign sales. But in 2025, exports are projected to drop by 2.3%, due to trade concerns and global competition. Top markets remain Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Colombia, and China.

Prices increased in June, with carcass prices 21% higher than the previous year. Hot weather may reduce hog weight gain, potentially tightening supply and stabilizing prices.

“Pork remains a more affordable protein compared to beef, and continued consumer interest, both domestically and abroad, could provide some demand-side support.”

Despite the bearish tone of the report, some seasonal price resilience and long-term market adjustments could improve conditions for hog producers in the second half of 2025.


Trending Video

Dr. Eduardo Beltranena: Feeding Faba Bean to Pigs

Video: Dr. Eduardo Beltranena: Feeding Faba Bean to Pigs

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Eduardo Beltranena explains the benefits of feeding faba beans to pigs. He discusses inclusion rates, nutritional comparisons with cereals, cultivar selection, and how frost-damaged beans can still be effectively utilized. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Faba beans provide both starch and protein, competing directly with cereals in swine diets."

Meet the guest: Dr. Eduardo Beltranena / eduardo-beltranena-61660a1b2 holds a Ph.D. in nutrition and reproduction interactions from the University of Alberta and currently serves as Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist at North Carolina State University. His work focuses on improving swine nutrition using regional feedstuffs, optimizing nitrogen use, and supporting Spanish-speaking workers in US pork operations.