The pig sector remains one of the most affected segments of European livestock farming, and Romania is strongly feeling both the economic and sanitary impact. According to INS (2024), the pig population has continued to decline, reaching approximately 3.2 million head, which keeps Romania below the EU average in terms of livestock density. Eurostat confirms this downward trend, correlated with the pressures generated by African swine fever.

At European level, the DG AGRI – Market Outlook 2024 shows that pork prices have stabilized after the volatility of recent years, but the high cost of feed and strict sanitary requirements are reducing farm profit margins. In Romania, the situation is amplified by movement restrictions and by the economic losses associated with outbreaks confirmed by ANSVSA.

Farmers operating commercial units must invest in high-level biosecurity, and the PNS 2023–2027 explicitly highlights the importance of modern sanitary protection infrastructure. According to AFIR data, demand for the modernization of pig farms is increasing, with investments focused on automated ventilation, disinfection, monitoring, and livestock management systems.

Despite the difficulties, there is interest in robust breeds and alternative systems, especially among small farms. However, long-term competitiveness remains dependent on disease control, feed consumption optimization, and access to marketing channels.

The pig sector can regain stability if structural investments are maintained and sanitary risk management remains a priority.

(Photo: Freepik)