In Ukraine, there has been a rapid increase in pork prices: over the past year, the prices for this type of meat have risen by 60%. Experts cite the main reason for this increase as the reduction in the pig population, particularly in household farms, which has led to a shortage of supply in the domestic market.
This is reported by Finway
Market Situation for Live Weight and the Impact of Imports
According to UAC analyst Maksym Hopka, at the beginning of 2025, pork prices increased by 34%, and on an annual basis, by 60%. In winter, the pig population decreased to 4.5 million, which stimulated a market deficit and price increases. In September, the purchasing price for live weight of bacon breeds reached 98–100 UAH/kg depending on the region.
The shortage of domestic supply forced Ukraine to increase pork imports. In August 2025, 4.6 thousand tons of meat were imported – this is 48% more compared to July. Overall, for the first eight months of the year, imports amounted to 14.9 thousand tons, which is 7.8 times higher than the same indicator in 2024. According to the expert, this is the highest level of imports since 2022.
“All this stimulated imports. In August 2025 alone, 4.6 thousand tons of meat were imported, which is 48% more than in July. Overall, for eight months this year, imports totaled 14.9 thousand tons – 7.8 times more than in the same period in 2024. This is the highest figure since 2022,” noted Hopka.
Experts predict that by the end of 2025, import volumes could rise to 25 thousand tons, with most supplies expected in the second half of the year. The decrease in live weight prices in EU countries makes the European market attractive for Ukrainian purchases, thus imports remain an alternative source of raw materials for meat processors.
Current Prices and Prospects for National Production
According to State Statistics, as of September 1, 2025, there are 4.8 million pigs in Ukraine, which is 5% less than last year, but 7% more compared to January. Despite an increase of 330 thousand heads since the beginning of the year, the supply in the market remains limited, and the recovery of the population is mainly occurring in the entrepreneurial sector, which currently occupies 65% of the market.
At the Capital Market in Kyiv, pork prices have remained unchanged for two weeks. Ribs cost 230 UAH/kg, tenderloin is sold for 100 UAH more, chops are priced at 270 UAH/kg, the hindquarters at 225 UAH/kg, and the shoulder at 220 UAH/kg. At the same time, the pork neck has decreased by 20 UAH and currently costs 350 UAH/kg. Goulash and minced pork are offered at 175 and 170 UAH per kilogram, respectively.
According to experts, a reduction in imports is only possible with a gradual increase in the pig population in Ukraine, which will affect the stabilization of domestic prices in the future.