Will there be less pork chop on Polish tables? The costs of the breeders of the flock eat profits
In the survey, which covered 517 pig breeders and was conducted in the first quarter of 2025, the producers were asked about the profitability assessment of their activities, perspectives for the industry and the biggest problems they face. According to Gobarto, the results clearly show that Moods among farmers are pessimistic.
The data shows that 72.5 percent respondents assess the situation in the sector as unsatisfactory. Only 13.6 percent Breeders expressed a positive opinion about the market condition, and 13.9 percent described it as average.
Over two -thirds of the respondents admitted that in 2024 the production of the pig was unprofitable – 34.8 percent. found her unprofitable, and 27.5 percent. too unprofitable.
Only 11.4 percent considered her as profitable, while 3.7 percent indicated high profitability. Every fifth breeder (22.6 percent) admitted that running a farm did not bring him either losses or profits.
The difficult financial situation means that farmers are increasingly giving up investments in their farms. Up to 52 percent does not plan any expenditure in 2025, and 26.3 percent intends to reduce the scale of production. Only 11.8 percent It plans small investments, while more significant modernization – like the implementation of new technologies – considers only 9.9 percent.
“Lack of enthusiasm among Polish pig producers is a phenomenon present for years, which have its specific reasons. The main problem is variable profitability conditions that affect the stability of operations and hinder long -term planning” – comments Piotr Karnas, director of pigs development in Gobarto a breeder.
As an example, he gives 2024. His beginning was beneficial to breeders, but the second half of the year brought a clear deterioration of the situation.
It is becoming increasingly difficult to get profit. Electricity for expensive
In addition to uncertain profitability, breeders They struggle with a number of expensive problems. High energy prices are the most frequently indicated barrier – 48.2 percent indicated them. respondents. Another important challenges are the increase in feed prices (27.1 percent) and diseases such as African swine fever (29 %) that destabilize production.
However, the biggest obstacle to 62.9 percent Farmers are unfavorable legal regulations and agricultural policy, which – in their opinion – do not support the development of the industry. In addition, 7.9 percent He draws attention to the difficulty finding employees.
High bills for electricity, water and fuel often absorb most of the profit generated. As Karnas indicates, even in modern breeding facilities with mechanical, monthly ventilation Energy costs can reach 6-7 thousand. PLN at 2 thousand fattening positions.
The expert also points out that uncertainty as to the future of the food production sector affects breeders' investment decisions, which in practice means inhibition of farm development.
As much as 75.8 percent respondents as a significant risk for the national pig sector indicates environmental issues and global trade agreements such as Mercosur, which They can weaken the competitiveness of Polish producers.
Social and consumer changes are also significant. 18.4 percent respondents are concerned that lifestyle changes and eating habits will limit the demand for pork. Additionally 21.3 percent Breeders draws attention to the protests of village residents against new investments in breeding. Another 16.4 percent He complains about problems with obtaining the necessary permits and documentation.
