The recent Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) reveals notable trends in the U.S. swine industry as of December 1, 2024. The total inventory of hogs and pigs stands at 75.8 million, reflecting a 1% increase from December 2023, although it shows a slight decline from the 76.0 million reported on September 1, 2024. This data is crucial for stakeholders in the agriculture sector, particularly for those involved in livestock production and related industries.
Among the 75.8 million hogs and pigs, the majority—69.8 million—are classified as market hogs, while 6.00 million are retained for breeding purposes. The weaning of 35.2 million pigs between September and November 2024 indicates a healthy production cycle, with a 2% increase compared to the previous year. This uptick in weaning rates, alongside an average of 11.92 pigs weaned per litter, suggests that producers are successfully managing breeding and farrowing processes, which is essential for maintaining supply levels in a fluctuating market.
Looking ahead, U.S. hog producers are planning to farrow approximately 2.93 million sows from December 2024 to February 2025, followed by 2.95 million sows from March to May 2025. These projections are significant as they provide insights into future supply dynamics. A stable or increasing sow population is critical for meeting market demand, particularly given the global interest in pork production and consumption.
Geographically, Iowa remains the dominant state in hog production, accounting for 24.6 million head, followed by Minnesota and North Carolina with 9.50 million and 8.20 million head, respectively. This concentration of production in certain states can have implications for regional agricultural policies, resource allocation, and investment opportunities. Investors looking to enter or expand within the swine sector may focus on these key states, which offer established infrastructure and market access.
For investors and stakeholders in the agriculture sector, these trends highlight the importance of monitoring swine inventory levels, production rates, and regional dynamics. The data from NASS, gathered through comprehensive surveys of over 6,000 operators, provides a reliable foundation for making informed decisions. As the industry navigates challenges such as feed costs, disease management, and evolving consumer preferences, understanding these metrics will be essential for strategic planning and investment in the U.S. hog market.
