French agricultural production rebounded in 2025, rising 4.7% in total value after two consecutive years of decline, according to data published by Agreste, the statistical service of the French Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Forestry. The national recovery was driven by a rebound in crop production and a 10.1% increase in animal production value, led by higher prices in the beef, dairy, and egg sectors.
Pig Production Declines Amid Falling Prices
Despite the broader agricultural recovery, the French pork sector experienced a sharp downturn in 2025. According to Agreste data, the total value of French pig production dropped 9.4%. The contraction resulted almost entirely from a 9.8% fall in market prices, while production volumes remained virtually stable with a modest 0.4% increase.
The price decline impacted every region across France. In Brittany, the country’s primary pork-producing region which accounts for slightly more than half of the national production value, output value fell 11.2%. This drop stemmed from an 11.1% reduction in prices alongside a stable volume level that dipped by just 0.1%, according to the ministry report. Other major producing regions faced similar pressures, with production values falling 7.8% in Pays de la Loire and 7.1% in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Contrasting Fortunes in Livestock Sectors
The difficulties in the pork industry contrast sharply with performance across other major livestock sectors in France. Agreste figures show that the total value of beef production increased 20.5%, fueled largely by steep price increases. Poultry production value rose 3.5%, while the egg sector recorded a 32.1% surge in value.
Feed costs offered some operational relief for livestock farmers during the year. According to the ministry, animal feed costs decreased by 3.1% in total value throughout 2025, lowering production expenses. However, the reduction in feed bills proved insufficient to offset the severe drop in revenue experienced by pork producers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the overall growth in French agriculture in 2025?
According to Agreste, national agricultural production value increased by 4.7% due to a recovery in crop production and a 10.1% rise in animal production value, supported by higher prices for beef, milk, and eggs.
Which region produces the most pork in France?
Brittany is the country’s primary pork-producing region, accounting for slightly more than half of the national production value.
Did lower feed costs help pork producers offset falling prices?
No. While animal feed costs decreased by 3.1% in value during 2025, the reduction was not large enough to compensate for the 9.4% drop in the total value of pork production driven by falling market prices.
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