Global Pork and Beef Sectors Face Production Slowdown in 2026 – RaboResearch
Global pork and beef production is forecast to slow sharply in 2026, with output expected to contract for the first time in six years, according to RaboResearch’s Global Protein Outlook for 2026. The report signals a more challenging operating environment for the global animal protein sector following several years of expansion.
RaboResearch attributes the slowdown to a combination of cyclical and structural factors. In beef, changing market dynamics in North America and Brazil are expected to limit production growth, while China’s continued efforts to rebalance its pork sector are curbing output following earlier over-expansion. Together, these shifts are tightening global supply fundamentals.
The report also highlights ongoing disruption from animal disease outbreaks, including African swine fever and avian influenza, which continue to restrict trade flows and add cost pressure across supply chains.
For buyers and wholesalers, the outlook points to a more constrained and less predictable global meat market, with supply management and sourcing flexibility becoming increasingly important over the coming year.
Source article:
Pig World – “Global pork and beef sectors facing slowdown in 2026 – RaboResearch” | 12 December 2025