PIG FARMERS RAISE ALARM OVER FALLING PORK PRICES

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Posted by admin on February 20, 2026 at 1:45 AM

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The Zambia Pig Farmers Cooperative Society (ZPFCS) has expressed deep concern over the sharp decline in pork prices, warning that the trend threatens the survival of small and medium-scale pig farmers across the country.

In a statement Issued by Zambian Pig Farmers Cooperative Society, Media and Public Relations, Lusungu Mwazikani Phiri highlighted that Pork prices have been dropping at an average rate of 2.4 percent per month since November 2025, amounting to a 10% fall in just four months.

The Cooperative says this steep decline makes it difficult for farmers to plan operations, recover costs, and remain profitable.

With few off-takers controlling the market and unilaterally setting prices, farmers face limited bargaining power.

If the trend continues, many small and medium-scale pig farmers may be forced to shut down operations, leading to job losses and increased poverty levels among farming households.

The Cooperative, representing nearly 1,000 farmers nationwide, stressed that the pork sector is a vital source of employment and income generation in rural communities.

ZPFCS has urged key stakeholders including the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises, the Zambia National Farmers Union, and leading pork industry companies to convene roundtable discussions to address the crisis.

The Cooperative emphasized that stabilizing pork prices is essential to protect farmers’ livelihoods, food security, and rural employment.