President of the Union of Producers and Employers of the Meat Industry: the industry is experiencing one of the most difficult moments in its history

The Polish pig industry is experiencing one of the most difficult moments in its history. The decline in the pig population, the decreasing number of breeding farms and the dependence on imported piglets are just some of the problems that breeders have to face. Although the situation seems unstable, this crisis may become an impulse for fundamental changes and the development of modern solutions that will allow it to appear on global markets as a product of the highest quality. Will the Polish pig industry find the right way to turn the crisis into a new era?

The situation of the Polish pig industry: challenges and opportunities for development

Wiesław Różański: – The Polish pig industry is facing one of the most serious crises in its history. Over the last two decades, the number of pigs in Poland has fallen by almost half – from 17 to 9 million. Moreover, the number of farms breeding pigs is also decreasing, although at the same time the average herd size has increased, from 55 to 177 animals. Dependence on the import of piglets from Denmark remains a critical problem, which results from shortages in domestic sow production.

Despite these challenges, experts see the current situation as an opportunity to introduce actions that will not only save the industry from collapse, but also make it more modern and competitive. Wiesław Różański, president of the Union of Producers and Employers of the Meat Industry (UPEMI), emphasizes the importance of activities such as export development, promotion of Polish pork and effective use of national and EU support funds.

Export – a key element of the development strategy

In the first months of 2024, Polish pork exports reached 80,000. tons, which means an increase of 1.9%. compared to the same period of the previous year. However, exports have been limited for years by factors such as African swine fever (ASF) and geopolitics. The ASF epidemic effectively excluded Poland from many Asian markets, including South Korea and China.

In 2023, pork exports from Poland reached the value of over EUR 800 million, of which 70 percent constituted sales to EU countries, and 30 percent to third countries. Vietnam and Hong Kong are some of the key recipients outside the EU, and in 2024 South Korea may join this group. Intensive work on opening the Korean market is already bearing fruit – the first producers have obtained the appropriate export certificates.

Promotion of the quality and modernity of Polish pork

Highlighting the quality and safety of Polish meat is one of the main goals of UPEMI’s promotional activities. Projects such as “Meat from Poland in the Republic of Korea” or the participation of Polish entrepreneurs in international fairs help build the brand of Polish pork in the world. As Wiesław Różański points out,

Changing market conditions, including increases in labor and energy costs, force producers to look for competitive advantages other than price. Quality, safety and modern breeding methods may be the key to success.

Financial support for pig breeders

Currently, pig breeders can benefit from various forms of financial support, including biosecurity subsidies, low-interest loans and funds under the Animal Welfare Ecoscheme. This program supports breeders who comply with animal welfare principles and have QAFP quality system certificates. These initiatives not only support producers financially, but also contribute to improving the quality and safety of Polish pork.

Reconstruction strategy for the pig industry

According to Wiesław Różański

A key element of the reconstruction of the pig sector is developing a coherent strategy that will take into account the needs of the industry and the possibilities of support from the state and the European Union.

This document should indicate development directions and define financial tools that could support breeders in the process of rebuilding the pig population.

Although the situation is difficult, the combined efforts of the private sector, industry organizations and state administration can contribute to strengthening Poland’s position as a producer of high-quality pork on the international arena.

The situation of the Polish pig industry requires decisive actions, but at the same time creates opportunities for development and building competitive advantages on domestic and international markets. Investments in quality, safety and modern technologies are of key importance, which will allow Polish producers to compete effectively on the global market. However, success will only be possible with an appropriate industry reconstruction strategy, government support and effective use of available funds. If these conditions are met, Polish pork has a chance not only to survive the crisis, but also to gain a stronger position on global markets.