European meat production continues to shrink

EUROPE – The European Union has recorded another year of livestock decline, with the meat sector particularly affected, according to new data released by Eurostat.

The number of pigs across EU member states fell to 132 million in 2024, marking a 0.5% decrease compared to 2023.

Cattle numbers dropped more sharply, declining by 2.8% year-on-year to 72 million.

Sheep and goats were also affected, with populations falling by 1.7% and 1.6% respectively, down to 57 million and 10 million.

The decrease in meat-producing animals reflects a broader contraction that has continued over the past decade, with pig herds down 8.1% since 2014 and cattle reduced by 8.7%.

Sheep and goat numbers have also seen long-term reductions, shrinking by 9.4% and 16.3% over the same period.

These declines are linked to a mix of rising production costs, tighter environmental regulations, and changing dietary habits across Europe.

Farmers also face pressure from climate targets and policies aimed at lowering greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.

As a result, the livestock sector is undergoing structural changes that could affect food supply chains and rural livelihoods.

Meanwhile, in contrast to the EU trend, Qatar’s livestock industry is growing, with fresh government data showing a national animal count of 1,139,578 in 2024.

The country’s Ministry of Municipality reports that sheep make up the largest share at 681,293 animals, accounting for 60% of the total population.

Goats follow with 325,233 heads (29%), while camels and cattle make up 94,299 (8%) and 38,753 (3%) respectively.

Qatar currently has 7,089 registered livestock breeders who contribute to the supply of meat, dairy, and poultry nationwide.

According to the Ministry’s latest review, 50 animal production projects have been licensed, including operations in meat, milk, and other sectors.

Out of these, 32 projects are now operational, while 18 remain in the construction or approval phase.

Fifteen of the total projects are focused on meat production, though only two have started operating, with 13 still under development.

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