In January 2025, Ukraine recorded a significant increase in pork imports, exceeding the volume of supplies in the last quarter of 2024. According to analysts of the Ukrainian Pig Farmers Association, about 323 tons of pork were imported into Ukraine, which is more than twice the volume of imports in October-December last year.

Despite the fact that the import volumes were not large enough to have a significant impact on the domestic market, they still led to an increase in pork prices in Ukraine. The increase in demand for imported pork was a consequence of the increased interest of Ukrainian producers in external supply of products. As a result, domestic pork prices began to gradually increase, although they did not significantly change the picture on the market.

During January 2025, pork exports from Ukraine amounted to 295 tons, which is slightly inferior to imports, but still reflects stable demand for Ukrainian pork on international markets. The main countries to which Ukrainian supplies are directed are the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Hong Kong, Malaysia and Liberia. A feature of this period was the resumption of pork supplies to Georgia, which indicates a certain expansion of the geography of export markets.

Pork imports for the first month of the year continue to grow in conditions where domestic pork production in Ukraine remains stable, but insufficient to fully cover market needs. The increase in imports reflects changes in the Ukrainian meat market and the observed trend towards diversification of supply sources.

Experts indicate that the growth of imports in the context of increasing domestic prices for pork may become an important factor in shaping future market trends. It will be necessary to monitor the development of the situation in the coming months, as the increase in imports may open up new opportunities for consumers, but at the same time affect the competitiveness of domestic production.

Overall, the Ukrainian pork market in 2025 continues to experience important changes, in particular in terms of growing external demand and increasing import volumes, which affects pricing policy and the competitive environment.