Germany increases pork exports despite setback in trade with non-EU countries

GERMANY – Germany’s pork exports grew slightly in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with the increase largely driven by stronger demand within the European Union.

According to data from the Agricultural Market Information Company (AMI), which relies on figures from Germany’s Federal Statistical Office (Destatis), a total of 548,000 tonnes of pork were exported between January and March, reflecting a 2 percent rise year-on-year.

Export destinations see contrasting shifts

While overall pork exports rose, the destinations for German pork changed significantly, with a steep decline in shipments to countries outside the EU.

Exports to non-EU countries dropped by about 30 percent, falling from 93,000 tonnes in the first quarter of 2024 to just 66,000 tonnes over the same period in 2025.

The fall in exports to third countries was attributed to an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) among water buffalo in Brandenburg in January, which temporarily halted Germany’s eligibility to export to several non-EU markets.

As a result of the disease outbreak, trade beyond the EU was severely restricted until Germany regained its FMD-free status in April.

In contrast, exports within the EU increased by nearly 9 percent, with EU member states accounting for 482,000 tonnes of the pork shipped during the first quarter.

Italy and the Netherlands remained Germany’s top importers of pork within the EU, with volumes to these countries rising by 14 percent and 9 percent, respectively.

Demand also climbed in several Eastern European markets, including Poland, Romania, and the Czech Republic, which all imported more German pork compared to the previous year.

Industry outlook shows cautious optimism

Now that Germany has resumed trade with third countries, market analysts anticipate continued growth in pork exports over the coming months.

This expected rise is based on both a slight uptick in domestic pork production and renewed access to previously restricted export markets.

Although the industry is still recovering from disruptions linked to FMD, the resumption of trade with international buyers is seen as a positive step.

Exporters are closely watching how restored market access will influence volumes in the second quarter, particularly with increased competition from other pork-producing nations.

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