The pig farming industry in Scotland is on the brink of collapse, with farmers facing unprecedented challenges that threaten their livelihoods. The primary culprit is the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in Spain, which has led to a glut of Spanish pork in European markets. This surplus, coupled with increased production costs and lower supermarket prices, has created a dire situation for Scottish pig farmers.
The impact is evident in the numbers. The National Farmers Union Scotland (NFUS) reports a staggering 10% decline in Scottish sow herds since the start of 2026. The total number of pigs in Scotland in 2025 was 312,300, a 7.3% drop from the five-year average. The breeding herd pigs, a critical component of the industry, have decreased by a fifth, with only 25,600 recorded. These figures underscore the severity of the crisis.
Farmers are incurring substantial losses, with estimates ranging from £700 to £1,000 per sow place, translating to potential losses of up to £500,000 for a 500-sow unit. The financial strain is so severe that some farmers, like Gregor Christie and Alastair Lane, are considering selling their herds or exiting the industry altogether. Christie's family business, for instance, suffered a £70,000 loss in the first quarter of 2026, and the situation is projected to worsen.
The ASF outbreak in Spain has disrupted trade, as countries that typically import Spanish pork are now avoiding it due to the disease. This has resulted in a significant and sustained drop in pig prices, with processing plants overwhelmed by the backlog of animals waiting to be slaughtered. The supply-demand imbalance has left farmers producing pork at a loss.
The NFUS President, Andrew Connon, describes the situation as a crisis, emphasizing the unsustainable pressure on the industry. He highlights the UK's high animal welfare standards, which are being undermined by cheap meat imports from the continent. The UK government's restrictions on pork imports from the affected region of Spain are seen as insufficient, as they do not address the broader market dynamics.
Connon calls for immediate support from the Scottish government and retailers to promote Scottish produce. He urges consumers to seek out Scottish pork on store shelves. The Scottish government, in response, has committed to working with the NFUS and other stakeholders to protect the sustainability of farming and food production in Scotland.
The future of Scottish pig farming hangs in the balance. The industry's resilience is being tested, and the need for comprehensive solutions is urgent. As the crisis continues, farmers and policymakers must collaborate to address the complex challenges and ensure the long-term viability of this vital sector.
