The European livestock industry has seen a decline in meat production across various categories, with the exception of chicken, according to a recent report by Eurostat. The report highlights a decrease in livestock populations in Europe, painting a concerning picture for the industry as a whole.
Livestock populations in the EU at the end of 2023 were reported to be 133 million pigs, 74 million bovine animals, and 68 million sheep and goats. Spain, Greece, and France were among the key member states with the highest concentrations of livestock populations in the region.
On the other hand, countries like Ireland and Denmark were noted for their relative specialization in certain livestock farming sectors. For instance, Ireland ranked fourth in European cattle population, while Denmark closely followed France in the pig population.
Over the past two decades, there has been a downward trend in livestock populations, with sheep and goat numbers falling by 22% and bovine populations decreasing by 9%. The most recent data from 2022 to 2023 also showed a decline in sheep, pigs, and bovine animals, with goat populations experiencing a sharp drop of 5.2%.
In contrast to the overall decline in meat production, poultry meat production in the EU saw a 2.3% increase in 2023, reaching 13.3 million tonnes. Poland, Spain, Germany, and France were among the top contributors to poultry meat production in the region.
However, pig meat production in the EU experienced a significant decrease in 2023, dropping to 20.6 million tonnes, the lowest level in 15 years. Spain emerged as the largest producer of pig meat in the EU, followed by Germany, France, and Poland. Production declines were observed across various member states, with countries like Ireland, the Netherlands, and Denmark facing notable decreases.
The production of beef and veal in the EU also exhibited a decline in 2023, with fewer overall volumes compared to the previous year. France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Poland, and Spain were the major contributors to beef production, while the Netherlands, Spain, France, and Italy led in veal production.
Sheep and goat meat production in the EU saw a 7% decrease in 2023, with Spain, France, Ireland, and Greece being the top producers in this category. The decline in sheep and goat meat mirrored the overall trend of decreasing livestock populations and meat production in the region.
Overall, the report highlights the challenges facing the European livestock industry, with decreasing populations and production levels across various meat categories. The data signals a need for strategic interventions and support to sustain the industry and ensure its long-term viability.
As the Australian livestock industry grapples with its own challenges and opportunities, the European data serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices and strategic planning. By learning from the experiences of other regions and adapting best practices, Australian farmers can navigate the evolving landscape of the global livestock market.
In conclusion, the declining meat production and livestock figures in the EU underscore the need for proactive measures to support the sustainability and growth of the livestock industry. By leveraging data-driven insights and strategic decision-making, stakeholders can work towards building a resilient and thriving industry for the future.
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