Pork is one of the world's most consumed meats, accounting for one third of global meat consumption [1]. Its importance to the global food system is reflected in the scale of production and trade, which are concentrated in a relatively small number of major countries.
What makes a country influential in the global pig industry? Production is important, but so are exports, imports and domestic consumption. Large producers can influence global supply, while major exporters and importers shape international trade and demand.
This article proposes a ranking of 10 countries that shape the global pig industry, considering production, trade and domestic markets. Pork is considered here in broad terms, without distinguishing between specific categories of pork or pork products, to provide an overall view of the global market.