0
Japan's pork production, consumption, and imports are expected to remain flat in 2026, equivalent to 2025 levels. Beginning inventory is expected to hold steady as breeding pig imports declined, and combined with the extreme heat in 2025, likely reduced breeding rates and piglet production. Furthermore, high production costs and soaring construction costs will discourage expansion, keeping slaughter numbers and pork production stable. Domestic carcass prices remained high in 2025, reflecting strong demand and reduced shipments. Price-sensitive consumers continued substituting pork for beef. Pork imports are projected to be flat in 2026 despite the November 2025 suspension of Spanish pork following that country’s African swine fever (ASF) confirmation. Japan will diversify pork sourcing toward South America, in addition to maintaining North American imports to satisfy demand.
March 3, 2026/ USDA/ United States.
https://apps.fas.usda.gov/
