Estonian pig farming has had a difficult year. Although the epidemic has passed, many producers remain at a loss. Cheap meat from Europe is pushing prices down. Smaller farms have had to close.
Production is not easy to restore. "If production is stopped, it cannot be quickly restarted," says Valmar Haava, head of Saimre Agro. "It's an expensive and lengthy process."
There are no problems with meat sales. Partners buy everything. But the loss remains. Last year's epidemic is now having an impact. The emptying of pigsties created a meat shortage.
"Some farms only reached the market now," says Ragnar Loova, head of Nõo meat industry. This leads to long-term problems.
The number of pigs has decreased. This also affects other companies. For example, feed producers don't have enough work.
"Production volume is small," says Meelis Laande, head of Atria Farms. "This affects services and prices."
The share of Estonian pork has declined. Previously it was 70-80%, now 60%. The use of imported meat has increased.
The state is trying to help. There are plans to direct money to restore production. 14 million euros may go here.
"This is not just an Estonian problem," says official Madis Pärtel. "We need to talk with Europe."
Although people prefer local meat, cheaper imported meat is being bought.