Pork imports to Ukraine are showing rapid growth, and by the end of 2025, analysts predict that the volume of imported products could reach at least 25 thousand tons. This trend allows a return to the levels of 2022, when the market also experienced a significant increase in imports.
This is reported by Finway
Import Dynamics and Key Suppliers
During the first eight months of 2025, the Ukrainian market imported 14.9 thousand tons of fresh and frozen pork — this is 7.8 times higher than the same period last year. The growth was particularly noticeable in August, when the import volume reached 4.6 thousand tons, which is 48% more than in July. The largest volumes were recorded in July and August — a total of 7.7 thousand tons.
The main suppliers of pork to Ukraine remain Denmark, Poland, and the Netherlands, which consistently provide the majority of imported products.
Reasons for Import Growth and Price Situation
Industry experts note that a key factor in the activation of imports has been the reduction of the pig population in Ukraine, especially during the winter months, when the number of animals decreased to 4.5 million heads, mainly in private households. This led to a supply shortage in the domestic market and triggered price increases.
“The main reason for the active imports was the reduction of the pig population in winter to 4.5 million heads, primarily in household farms. This resulted in a supply shortage in the domestic market and rising prices,” explained UAC analyst Maksym Hopka.
In September, purchase prices for bacon-type pigs ranged from 98 to 100 hryvnias per kilogram of live weight, depending on the region. Since the beginning of the year, prices have increased by 34%, and on an annual basis — by 60%.
At the same time, in European Union countries, there is a decrease in prices for live pigs, making imports more attractive for Ukrainian companies. Experts emphasize that to reduce import volumes, it is necessary to increase domestic production.
As of September 1, according to State Statistics, there are 4.8 million pigs in Ukraine, which is 5% less than a year ago, but 7% more than at the beginning of the current year.