Introduction

The swine industry in China has undergone significant transformations in recent years, particularly following the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak that began in 2018. As the largest pork consumer and importer globally, China’s swine market presents a unique landscape. This report delves into the top 10 swine companies operating in China, focusing on their roles as major importers, financial performance, and market strategies.

Overview of the Chinese Swine Market

In 2022, China’s pork consumption was estimated at approximately 54 million metric tons, accounting for over 40% of the global pork consumption. The Chinese government has implemented policies to stabilize the swine population and increase production, leading to a recovery in the market post-ASF. The demand for pork remains robust, with rising incomes and urbanization contributing to increased consumption.

Top 10 Swine Companies in China

1. WH Group

WH Group is the world’s largest pork producer and a leading player in China’s swine industry. The company reported a revenue of approximately $22.5 billion in 2022. WH Group operates several subsidiaries, including Smithfield Foods in the United States, which helps diversify its supply chain. The company processes around 30 million hogs annually and has a market share of about 20% in China.

2. China National Agricultural Development Group (CNADC)

CNADC is another major player in the Chinese swine market, focusing on both production and processing. With a revenue of around $15 billion, CNADC has significantly enhanced its capabilities post-ASF by investing in biosecurity measures and modern farming techniques. The company produces approximately 5 million pigs per year.

3. Muyuan Foods

Muyuan Foods has rapidly ascended to become one of the largest swine producers in China, reporting revenues of approximately $10 billion in 2022. The company has a production capacity of around 15 million pigs per year. Muyuan has adopted advanced breeding technologies and a strong focus on biosecurity to mitigate risks associated with disease outbreaks.

4. New Hope Liuhe

New Hope Liuhe is a diversified agribusiness company involved in animal feed, breeding, and meat processing. The company reported revenues of about $8.5 billion in 2022. New Hope Liuhe has invested heavily in expanding its swine production facilities, aiming for a production capacity of 6 million pigs annually. The company focuses on sustainable practices and traceability in its supply chain.

5. Tianjin Mengtian Group

Tianjin Mengtian Group operates in the swine breeding and processing sectors, generating around $6 billion in revenue. The company has a production capacity of about 4 million pigs per year. Mengtian Group emphasizes high biosecurity standards and has implemented modern farming techniques to ensure quality and efficiency.

6. COFCO Corporation

COFCO Corporation is one of China’s largest state-owned food processing companies, with a significant presence in the swine sector. In 2022, COFCO reported revenues of approximately $25 billion, with a portion derived from pork production and processing. The company has diversified its operations to include imports, securing its position in the global market.

7. Jiangsu Huazhong Animal Husbandry

Jiangsu Huazhong Animal Husbandry focuses on pig breeding and meat processing, with an annual revenue of around $4 billion. The company has invested in modern breeding technologies and has a production capacity of approximately 3 million pigs. Jiangsu Huazhong aims to enhance its market position through strategic partnerships and expansions.

8. Xiangyu Group

Xiangyu Group is involved in various sectors, including agriculture and animal husbandry. The company reported revenues of around $3 billion in 2022. Xiangyu Group has developed a comprehensive supply chain, from breeding to processing, producing about 2 million pigs annually.

9. Henan Shuanghui Investment & Development Co.

Shuanghui, a subsidiary of WH Group, focuses on pork processing and distribution. The company generates approximately $7 billion in revenue and has a market share of around 10% in China’s pork market. Shuanghui is known for its brand recognition and commitment to quality, leveraging WH Group’s extensive supply chain.

10. Beidahuang Group

Beidahuang Group is involved in agriculture and food processing, with a growing focus on swine production. The company reported revenues of about $2 billion in 2022, with a production capacity of approximately 1.5 million pigs. Beidahuang Group emphasizes modernization and efficiency in its operations to compete in the market.

Import Trends and Financial Insights

China’s pork imports have seen fluctuations, particularly after the ASF outbreak, which led to increased imports from countries like the United States, Brazil, and Spain. In 2022, China imported approximately 2.5 million metric tons of pork, a significant increase as the country sought to stabilize its pork supply.

The average import price of pork in 2022 was approximately $3,500 per metric ton, reflecting the high demand and supply constraints. Major importing companies have established long-term partnerships with international suppliers to secure their supply chains.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Swine Industry

The Chinese swine industry faces several challenges, including disease outbreaks, fluctuating feed costs, and regulatory changes. However, opportunities exist in the form of technological advancements, investment in biosecurity, and the growing demand for high-quality pork products.

Companies that prioritize sustainability and traceability in their supply chains are likely to gain a competitive edge. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier and ethically sourced products, there is potential for growth in premium pork markets.

Conclusion

The swine industry in China is poised for continued growth, driven by increasing demand for pork and the recovery of the market from ASF. The top 10 companies in this sector play a crucial role in shaping the landscape, with their strategies focused on production efficiency, sustainability, and global partnerships. As these companies navigate challenges and explore new opportunities, they will significantly impact China’s position in the global pork market.

[Read More: The State of the Global Pork, Swine, Pig, and Bacon Industry: A Comprehensive 2025 Report]