Denmark increases pork exports in 2025 – Agricultural Market Information Company

DENMARK – Denmark exported roughly 1.35 million tons of pork and by-products in 2025, an increase of 7% compared with 2024, according to the Agricultural Market Information Company (AMI).

Poland became the largest purchaser of Danish pork, receiving 207,000 tons, a 23% increase from the previous year, while China imported 200,000 tons, up 3%, and Germany stayed at 200,000 tons, dropping to third place.

Exports to the Philippines rose by 41%, whereas shipments to Japan fell by 35%, reflecting changes in Asian market demand for Danish pork.

Over half of Denmark’s pork exports were sent to the EU single market, with deliveries to the EU-27 reaching around 716,000 tons, while exports outside the EU totalled approximately 638,000 tons.

Trade and Production Context

Denmark competes closely with other European suppliers due to its high reliance on pork exports, and live animal sales, particularly to Poland and Germany, remain an important component of trade.

The country is a leading meat producer in Europe, with pork accounting for the majority of production, though domestic consumption patterns are shifting toward lower meat intake.

A survey by ProVeg International indicated that 48% of Danish consumers have reduced their meat consumption, and 62% consider the national meat intake too high.

Poultry production in Denmark reached about 159,200 tons by late 2023, while industrial-scale pork production remained elevated.

Beef and veal production involves specialised cattle farming, often emphasising higher animal welfare standards, according to Himmerlandskød.

Statistics Denmark provides monthly updates on slaughter and meat production, offering comprehensive data to track sector trends.

Shifting Consumer Preferences

Danish consumers increasingly replace meat with legumes, with 41% choosing plant-based options and 39% trying alternative protein products, according to ProVeg International.

Interest in cultivated meat is rising, as 62% of Danes see average meat consumption as excessive and express curiosity about sustainable alternatives, reports the Good Food Institute Europe.

Climate concerns regarding livestock production, particularly ruminants, influence dietary changes, prompting some consumers to lower their meat intake and explore other protein sources.

Price and taste remain barriers to plant-based adoption, each cited by 29% of consumers as a challenge when switching from conventional meat products.

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