Fewer pigs and cattle in the southwest: farmers under pressure!

Fewer pigs and cattle in the southwest: farmers under pressure!

Agriculture in southwest Germany is facing a renewed decline in animal husbandry. According to information from sueddeutsche.de The number of pigs in Baden-Württemberg fell by 1% to 1.24 million animals. This figure represents a stabilized decline compared to previous years, where stocks were reduced by 10%, 6% and 2%. The number of farms that keep pigs has also fallen by 2% to 1,460, which represents a less dramatic decrease for 2025 than in previous years.

The stock statistics show a clear distribution in the state's stables: On May 2, 2025, there were 462,500 piglets, 179,200 young pigs and 496,200 fattening pigs. The cattle population is also affected and has fallen by 2% to 872,058 animals. Milk production in particular is suffering: the number of dairy cows fell by 2% to 300,715 animals, and the number of dairy farms fell by 3% to 4,974. These trends are worrying, as the self-sufficiency level for milk and dairy products in Baden-Württemberg is now only 56% and continues to decline.

Challenges for companies

The pressure on companies is constantly fueled by various factors. Political requirements, price pressure in retail and increasing demands are putting pressure on farmers. Around a quarter of dairy farmers in Baden-Württemberg gave up between 2020 and 2025, indicating the dramatic conditions they face.

The forecasts of developments in the livestock and meat markets, based on the results of current surveys, are crucial for political decisions at various levels, such as: destatis.de explained. These results are disseminated across numerous institutions, including the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the European Commission, in order to assess the market situation and create structures for the future.

The importance of statistics

The annual surveys, which also include brood stock and chick production, play a crucial role for farms. Not only do they provide important information about the production structure, but they also help to monitor the hygienic requirements for the meat intended for human consumption. The results are essential for the creation of residue control plans and support preventive consumer protection as well as risk assessments in the context of slaughter animal and meat inspections.

The current trends in animal husbandry in Baden-Württemberg, together with the comprehensive statistics on agricultural production, clearly show that the challenges for agriculture continue. The balance between economic requirements and sustainable animal husbandry remains a central issue that will require special attention in the future.