Denmark exported more than 382,000 tonnes of pork, by-products and processed products in the first quarter of the year. This represents an increase of around 34,000 tonnes compared with the same period in 2025, which underlines the continued competitiveness of Danish pork in global markets. However, shipments of live pigs totalled 129,000 tonnes, down by more than 7,000 tonnes year-on-year. 

Within the EU, Poland and Germany retained their positions as Denmark’s leading customers. Exports of pork, by-products and processed products to Poland reached almost  62,000 tonnes while Germany imported just under 59,000 tonnes during the period. This is significantly more than in the first three months of 2025. The product mix differs considerably between the two markets. Polish customers continue to focus primarily on cuts, whereas German customers recorded a higher demand for whole carcasses, half carcasses and cuts.

Overall, the Danish pig sector shipped more than 204,000 tonnes of products to EU destinations in the first quarter, an increase of no less than 22,000 tonnes compared with the same period last year.

Third country exports continue to rise

Exports to third countries also recorded solid growth. In the first three months of 2026, the Danish pig sector supplied approximately 178,000 tonnes of products outside the EU, up by nearly 13,000 tonnes year-on-year.

China remains Denmark's largest non-EU market despite a modest decline in volumes. Chinese buyers imported just under 52,000 tonnes during the period, primarily cuts and by-products, representing a reduction of around 3,000 tonnes compared with the first quarter of 2025.

The UK also imported less pork, by-products and processed products from Denmark in the first three months. By contrast, exports to the Philippines have risen significantly. Danish exports to the country rose sharply to 18,500 tonnes, an increase of more than 6,000 tonnes year-on-year. Demand from Philippine customers continued to centre on cuts and by-products, reflecting the market's growing importance for Danish exporters.