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In 2020 and 2021, Bulgaria made significant progress in the recovery of the national swine herd after African swine fever (ASF) hit the country in 2018.
In 2020, 60,000 live swine, more than double compared to 2019, were imported from the Netherlands, Croatia, Denmark, and Slovakia. Imported hogs were mainly used as breeding stock and occasionally as pigs for fattening. In 2021 (January-May), imports decreased by 29% and are projected to be lower for the year. Lower pork industry profitability and the latest ASF outbreak in August, which created uncertainty for investors, have limited imports. To date, exports of live swine in 2020 and 2021 were at zero due to ASF trade restrictions.
Pork imports in 2020 were at 157,944 CWE, a 2.6% increase over 2019 to compensate for the lower local production. Major pork suppliers were Spain, Germany, Belgium, and France. Lower local stocks and strong consumer demand drove imports. During January-May 2021, imports grew by 24.4%, due to better consumer demand, sourced mostly from Germany and Spain. It is forecasted that annual imports are likely to grow, which along with improved pork production can lead to higher domestic consumption.
Pork exports (mainly processed products) are usually small. Exports in 2020 were 5,800 CWE, down 26% from 2019. Exports are limited due to competitive prices and animal health restrictions in third-country markets. Greece is Bulgaria’s main export market, with small quantities also to Romania and Italy. January-May 2021 exports increased by 24.54% to these markets.
September 27, 2021/ USDA/ United States.
https://apps.fas.usda.gov/
