The Netherlands Faces Another Drop in Pig Numbers in 2025
The Netherlands' pig population is expected to decline further in 2025 due to government regulations aimed at reducing nitrogen emissions, leading to farm closures and shifting market dynamics.
The Netherlands is set to experience another decline in its pig population in 2025. According to breeding organization Topigs Norsvin, the country currently has around 670,000 active sows. However, this number is expected to drop further to between 620,000 and 630,000 by the end of the year. This follows a significant decrease in 2024 when the number of active sows fell from 730,000 to 670,000.
Why Are Pig Numbers Declining?
The primary reason behind the ongoing decline is government regulations aimed at reducing livestock farming. Hundreds of pig farms have shut down in recent years, leading to a reduction of approximately 100,000 sows within two years. Some farms have voluntarily closed, while others participated in government-supported termination programs.
Government Programs Encouraging Farm Closures
One major initiative contributing to the decline is the National Termination Regulation for Animal Husbandry Locations (Lbv). In 2024, 567 pig farms applied to this program, and 552 met all requirements. Out of these, 374 farms officially signed agreements to cease operations, and this number is expected to grow.
This regulation was introduced to help the Netherlands meet European Union nitrogen emission reduction targets. High nitrogen emissions threaten biodiversity, affecting various plant species. To comply with European environmental laws, the Netherlands has been working on reducing emissions from livestock farming.
Two Major Termination Programs in Five Years
The Lbv is not the first attempt to reduce the pig population. In 2019, the Dutch government introduced the Subsidy Regulation to Reconstruct the Pig Industry (Srv). This program resulted in the closure of 278 pig farms, reducing the pig inventory by 7%.
Compared to the 2019 program, the current Lbv initiative is expected to double the impact. Since 2018, the Netherlands’ total sow population has dropped from 887,000 to around 620,000–630,000, marking a reduction of 250,000 sows in five years.
Changes in the Market
The decrease in pig numbers is also shifting the structure of the Dutch pig industry. According to industry experts, 15% of sow production capacity and 8% of pig finishing capacity will disappear. As a result, the need to export young pigs for fattening will decline.
Despite these changes, around 80% of pig farmers plan to continue their operations. While farm closures are challenging, those who remain in the industry might benefit. With fewer pigs available, slaughterhouses and processors will still need a steady supply, potentially leading to better conditions for remaining farmers.
International Impact
On a broader scale, the reduction in the Netherlands’ pig population is unlikely to significantly affect overall EU pig production. Rabobank reported that by the end of 2024, total pig production across the EU and the UK remained stable, with only a small decline of 0.5%.
Looking Ahead
With the Dutch government focused on reducing nitrogen emissions, further declines in pig numbers are likely beyond 2025. However, for farmers still in business, market adjustments may present new opportunities. The coming years will determine how the Dutch pig industry adapts to these significant changes.
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