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An analysis of MAPA data regarding Spanish imports of live pigs during the first quarter of this year shows a significant decrease in both the number of animals imported for continued rearing and those intended for slaughter.
As for animals intended for continued rearing, 836,564 head were imported during the first quarter of this year, representing an approximately 28% decrease compared to the same period in 2025, when Spain imported a record 1,170,141 head (Figure 1).
Meanwhile, imports of animals intended for slaughter totaled 85,086 head, a nearly 74% drop from the 324,772 head imported during the first quarter of 2025.
Figure 1. Trends in Spanish imports during the first quarter of pigs intended for further rearing and slaughter. Source: 333, based on data from MAPA.
This decline comes amid uncertainty caused by the presence of African swine fever (ASF) in the country, which was detected in late 2025. The drop recorded in the first quarter of 2026 may reflect the initial effects of the ASF outbreak, which is already impacting trade flows.
As we noted in the analysis conducted earlier this year, the actual impact of ASF on live animal imports becomes clearer over time. However, it will take some time before we have more comprehensive data that allows us to assess the evolution of these trade flows and the full effects of the outbreak.
April 23, 2026/ 333 Staff with data from MAPA.
