Improved sow productivity expected to push pork production up in 2027

May 18, 2026

The USDA has forecast 2027 red meat production at 109 billion pounds, above 2026 production levels, with anticipated gains in pork and poultry expected to outweigh declining beef output. According to the May World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report released this week, pork production next year is expected to reach 28.255 billion pounds, despite limited growth in farrowings, as improved sow productivity will support larger pig crops and increased slaughter. The USDA also projects heavier hog carcass weights in 2027.

The 2026 production forecast for total red meat and poultry has risen to 108.4 billion pounds—a 0.1 billion pound increase from last month—driven by stronger pork, broiler and turkey outputs that should more than offset reduced beef production. Pork production has been raised slightly to 27.985 billion pounds, as production gains anticipated in the second half of the year should exceed second-quarter losses.

The average barrow and gilt price has been reduced to $68.38 per hundredweight, $0.75 less than last month. The WASDE is projecting the average barrow and gilt price to be $67/cwt in 2027.

For 2027, pork exports are expected to reach 7.330 billion pounds, based on increased production and competitive pricing in international markets. This year pork exports are forecast at 7.232 billion pounds due to improved global demand, particularly in the Western Hemisphere, in the second half of the year.

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