Pork Production Reaches Record High as Farmers Boost Productivity

Jamaica’s pork industry recorded its highest production level in a decade in 2025, moving to a record 9.33 million kilograms from 9.14 million kilograms in 2024.

The 2.08 per cent increase is despite a three per cent decline in the number of pigs slaughtered, from 118,934 in 2024 to 115,313 last year.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Franklin Witter, made the disclosure while delivering the keynote address at the Jamaica Pig Farmers Association’s 24th Annual General Meeting at the Kendal Camp and Conference Centre in Manchester on Thursday (Sept. 25).

Mr. Witter said that the primary driver of the growth in pork production was the increase in the average slaughter weight, which rose from 77 kilograms to 81 kilograms, representing a 5.2 per cent increase.

He noted that the trend continued during the first quarter of this year, with pork production growing by nine per cent, and average slaughter weight increasing by 17 per cent to 88 kilograms, from 75 kilograms in the corresponding quarter of 2025.

The number of pigs slaughtered fell by eight per cent to 27, 219, from 29,479.

Mr. Witter said the figures demonstrate the ability of farmers to compensate for lower slaughter volumes through improved productivity and heavier animals.

“These productivity gains, in real terms, represent a significant achievement,” he said, while commending farmers for improvements in the quality and management of their animals.

The State Minister also highlighted the growing contribution of local farmers to Jamaica’s pork supply, noting that the country now produces most of the fresh pork consumed locally.

Greater domestic production means more jobs, income and reinvestment in communities, while reducing exposure to disruptions in international markets and global supply chains, he pointed out.

Mr. Witter said the Government remains committed to working with the Jamaica Pig Farmers Association to strengthen production capacity and create opportunities across the pork value chain.

He said the industry’s progress demonstrates the resilience of farmers and provides a foundation for building a more productive, sustainable and competitive sector.

Mr. Witter said the Ministry’s focus on ensuring greater self-sufficiency in pork production is intended to strengthen food security and economic resilience.