USDA pork update: production, exports and global market analysis

Nov 27, 2023

In the report “Livestock and Poultry: World Markets and Trade” published mid-October, USDA analysts state that world pork production in 2024 is expected to “remain virtually unchanged at 115.5 million tonnes.” Lower production in the EU and China will be offset by a little higher production in Brazil, Vietnam and the US.

Specifically, US production is forecast to be 2% higher in 2024 compared to 2023. This is due to a strong increase in pigs produced per litter. Falling feed costs also play a role, which makes pork prices more competitive compared to other meats.

US pork exports are forecast to increase 3% in 2024 “on strong demand from Canada, the Philippines and South Korea as well as gaining market share from the EU in China and Australia.”

Looking at total global pork exports, shipments are forecast to increase 2% to 10.4 million tonnes in 2024 as Brazil exports continue to gain market share from EU and US pork products, particularly in the markets of Japan and Mexico.

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Video: What Really Drives Meat Quality in Pork? - Dr. Yan Huang

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Yan Huang from University of Arkansas explores how genetics, nutrition, and stress management shape pork quality. He explains how molecular pathways influence fat deposition, muscle growth, and meat flavor while balancing production efficiency. Listen now on all major platforms!

"The most important driver of pork quality. Feed plays a very important role in the meat quality."

Meet the guest: Dr. Yan Huang / yan-huang-77829421 is an Associate Professor in Nutritional Skeletal Muscle Biology at the University of Arkansas. With academic experience across China, South Korea, and the United States, his work focuses on the genetic and molecular regulation of muscle growth and fat deposition in swine. His research connects genetics, nutrition, and pork quality to improve production efficiency and consumer satisfaction.