On 21-22 October, the MCH Herning Congress Centre provided the framework for the 2025 Pig Congress where no fewer than 2,164 participants from the Danish pig sector were gathered. The programme consisted of presentations on the global demand for Danish pigmeat, export opportunities, technology and animal welfare. A key theme was how producers can balance their bottom line with sustainability at a time of growing requirements and new opportunities. The high points included award presentations to highly talented professionals and the launch of a new initiative for the production of pigs with intact tails – a step towards improved animal welfare and market differentiation. The atmosphere was one of engagement, knowledge-sharing and shared ambitions for the future.

There was live AI translation of the presentations for international guests.

Animal welfare and animal health as the drivers 

One of the initiatives receiving most attention at the congress was the work to produce more pigs with intact tails – part of Vision 2050 for the future of pig production in Denmark. The aim is one million pigs with intact tails by 2026. The takeaway from the congress was that this ambition looks likely to be achieved. Another focus area is loose housing in farrowing pens. Although the industry is already making significant progress in this area, a realistic transition period is crucial for success. Animal welfare remains an important area. At a time when almost the whole of Europe is experiencing problems with African Swine Fever, Foot & Mouth disease and aggressive PRRS, it is crucial that Danish pigs are protected.

In Denmark, for example, measures are being taken to reduce PRRS infection in herds and the project has already yielded positive results. New analyses show that PRRS negative pigs have a significantly lower antibiotic consumption and improved productivity compared to PRRS positive pigs. This is a result of close collaboration between pig producers, veterinarians, advisers, the Danish Agriculture & Food Council and the authorities.

Climate and environment at the forefront

The pig production sector has already achieved good results in their efforts to reduce emissions, including ammonia emissions. Work is also ongoing on new technologies and climate mitigation measures. The coming climate tax on agriculture comes into effect in 2030 and increases up to 2035. The tax covers methane and nitrous oxide from livestock production – particularly from slurry management in pig production. It was pointed out at the congress that producers can minimise the tax by investing in climate-friendly solutions. The tax will be DKK 300 per tonne CO₂e in 2030 and DKK 750 per tonne CO₂e in 2035.

The Danish Agriculture & Food Council is working on behalf of the entire industry to ensure a safe and stable framework for investing in climate-friendly solutions.  

Danish pig producers have already delivered significant environmental and climate improvements.  Through improved utilisation of livestock manure, reduced use of artificial fertiliser and efficient feed, emissions per kg produced pig have reduced significantly over time. "Back in the 1980s, livestock manure was more or less regarded as waste. Today we know better and we’re proud to be able to say that we have reduced emissions significantly in a number of areas,” said the Chair of the Danish Agriculture & Food Council Pig Sector, H.C. Gemælke at a recent meeting in the EU Commission.

A sector in growth with focus on high food security

The Danish pig sector rests on a firm footing in 2025. According to Statistics Denmark, Denmark’s total pig population stood at 11.9 million pigs on 1 July. In Q2, 3.3 million pigs were slaughtered – a rise on previous quarters, which indicates that more pigs are being bred and slaughtered in Denmark rather than being exported as piglets. Exports of live pigs fell by 6 per cent compared to the same period last year, particularly to markets such as Poland and Germany.

Food security is crucial for maintaining exports. Work is continuously being done to maintain a high standard of food safety and make improvements where necessary. All of which means that Danish pigmeat is in demand across the world.