Introduction

The swine industry is a crucial sector in the global agricultural economy, providing essential protein sources and employment opportunities worldwide. As of 2025, significant investments are anticipated in this industry, driven by increasing demand for pork, advancements in breeding technologies, and a growing focus on sustainable practices. This report explores the top 10 biggest investments in the swine industry for 2025, examining their financial implications, volumes, and potential impacts on the market.

1. Smithfield Foods

Smithfield Foods, a subsidiary of WH Group, is poised to invest approximately $1.5 billion in enhancing its production facilities and supply chain efficiencies in 2025. The investment will focus on expanding its breeding and gestation facilities in the Midwest to increase its annual production capacity by 10%. This expansion is expected to generate an additional 500 million pounds of pork annually. Furthermore, Smithfield plans to invest in sustainability initiatives, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint by 25% by 2030.

2. JBS S.A.

JBS S.A., one of the largest meat processors globally, has earmarked around $1.2 billion for its swine division, primarily focusing on expanding operations in North America and Europe. The investment will be used to upgrade processing plants and implement advanced technology for animal health monitoring. JBS aims to increase its production capacity by 8% in 2025, translating to an additional 400 million pounds of pork. The company also plans to enhance its supply chain resilience, ensuring better market access and reduced waste.

3. Tyson Foods

Tyson Foods is set to invest $1 billion into its swine production systems, emphasizing sustainable farming practices and improved animal welfare standards. This investment includes the construction of new facilities that utilize renewable energy sources, aiming for a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Tyson’s initiatives are projected to increase pork production by 5%, resulting in approximately 300 million additional pounds of pork in the market.

4. WH Group

WH Group, the parent company of Smithfield Foods, plans to invest $800 million in expanding its operations in China. This investment will focus on building new pig farms and processing plants to meet the rising domestic demand for pork. The expansion is expected to increase its production volume by 15%, equating to roughly 600 million pounds of pork. Additionally, WH Group aims to implement advanced technology in its operations to enhance biosecurity measures and animal health.

5. Danish Crown

Danish Crown, a leading European meat producer, is projected to invest $750 million in its swine segment, focusing on digitization and automation of its processing plants. The investment will facilitate a 10% increase in efficiency, allowing for the processing of an additional 250 million pounds of pork annually. Danish Crown is also committed to sustainable practices, planning to source 100% of its feed from certified sustainable suppliers by 2025.

6. Hormel Foods Corporation

Hormel Foods Corporation is planning to allocate $600 million to enhance its swine operations, focusing on the acquisition of new technologies for meat processing and packaging. The investment aims to streamline production and improve food safety measures. Hormel expects this initiative to increase its pork production capacity by 7%, resulting in approximately 200 million additional pounds of pork. The company also emphasizes community engagement and sustainable sourcing in its expansion plans.

7. Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation

Pilgrim’s Pride, primarily known for poultry, is diversifying into the swine industry with a planned investment of $500 million. This investment will focus on the development of new pig farms in the southern United States, aiming to produce high-quality pork to meet growing consumer demand. The projected increase in production is around 150 million pounds of pork annually. Pilgrim’s Pride is also exploring partnerships with local farmers to enhance its supply chain sustainability.

8. Maple Leaf Foods

Maple Leaf Foods, a Canadian meat processing company, is set to invest $450 million in modernizing its swine production facilities. This investment will focus on implementing environmentally friendly practices and enhancing animal welfare. The company’s initiatives are projected to increase its production capacity by 5%, equating to 100 million additional pounds of pork. Maple Leaf Foods is dedicated to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2025, aligning with global sustainability goals.

9. Seaboard Foods

Seaboard Foods plans to invest $400 million in expanding its hog production capacity in the Midwest. This investment will support the construction of new facilities and the implementation of advanced breeding technologies. Seaboard aims to increase its production by 6%, resulting in an additional 120 million pounds of pork. The company is also focusing on improving its supply chain logistics to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

10. New Hope Liuhe

New Hope Liuhe, a significant player in the Chinese agricultural sector, is projected to invest $350 million in its swine operations to improve biosecurity and animal health management. The investment will enable the company to enhance its production capabilities, with a target increase of 4% in pork output, translating to about 80 million pounds of pork. This initiative aligns with China’s growing emphasis on food safety and quality in the wake of recent industry challenges.

Conclusion

The swine industry is experiencing significant transformations as companies invest heavily in technology, sustainability, and efficiency. The top 10 investments highlighted in this report reflect a collective commitment to meeting the rising demand for pork while prioritizing environmental stewardship and animal welfare. As these investments materialize, they are expected to reshape the landscape of the global swine industry, contributing to economic growth and enhanced food security in 2025 and beyond.

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