Argentina pork exports jump 91% while chicken consumption reaches record levels

Argentina’s pork industry saw a sharp expansion in early 2026. Between January and May, exports of pork and by‑products rose 91.2% in volume to 7,645 tonnes and 156.8% in value to US$10.0 million, according to the Ministry of Economy’s agriculture secretariat. Domestic production also increased, reaching 354,588 tonnes and a slaughter of 3,720,893 head, up 11.8% and 9.7% respectively from the same period in 2025. Per‑capita pork consumption grew to 19.59 kg, an 8.4% rise year‑on‑year.

At the same time, chicken has become a dietary staple. A report from the Center for Poultry Processing Companies (CEPA) showed per‑capita chicken consumption in 2025 hit 49.3 kg, the highest level recorded and essentially equal to beef consumption of about 49 kg per person. The rise is attributed to steady production, relatively lower prices and greater consumer diversification, making poultry a core component of Argentine meals alongside beef.