Economy and prospects of the pig sector in France and European Union

Abstract

Pig production fits within the very competitive and very integrated market framework of the European Union. Throughout the years, this production has been concentrated in very competitive farms, being more professional and fewer and located in regions and sectors in Europe that have the best economic organisation.

The environmental regulations have changed the game, leading to a blockage or a setback in certain specialised regions like Brittany. All over France, the constraints have slown down or blocked the development of pig production, hindering the necessary adaptations or creating new charges.

With the enlargement of the EU, the main risks in pig farming are for the newcomers. However, if the frontiers open up via the WTO, the EU is running a major risk. While the family model is dominant in Europe, integration is developing and could spread throughout the world.

In such a context, will one be able to conciliate the high level of European social constraints and the profitability of these farms? What pig production model will be able to answer the society’s requests, remaining profitable and ensuring life and working conditions that employees and breeders expect?