Shauna Jager is pigmeat and poultry executive at Bord Bia, who provides data and market intelligence on export markets to clients.

In the video below, she speaks about the role of pigmeat and poultry producers in Ireland's agri-food sector, how Bord Bia supports these producers - including through the Bord Bia Quality Mark, and the export markets for these sectors.

How important is the Irish pigmeat sector?

Pigmeat is a really important part of the Irish agri‑food sector and is one of our largest indigenous livestock sectors.

Pig production in Ireland is highly efficient, technology‑driven and focused on both domestic and export markets- just under 400 pig producers in the Republic of Ireland.

What can you tell us about the poultry sector in Ireland?

Poultry, is also a more concentrated sector and is very focused on the domestic market, particularly as Ireland is not self‑sufficient.

Exports are largely limited to offal and by‑products - about 800 producers in domestic poultry production, including egg producers, rearers, and poultry meat growers.

Poultry, and pigmeat to some extent, are also key drivers behind growing meat protein consumption, particularly across the EU, largely due to their value for money and availability.

How does Bord Bia support these sectors?

Bord Bia works right across the supply chain. This includes supporting Ireland’s reputation through the Bord Bia Quality Mark, providing market insight to help processors make informed commercial decisions, and running promotional campaigns in the Irish market as well as in key export markets.

We also place a strong focus on engaging directly with customers and communicating Ireland’s sustainability, animal welfare, and traceability strengths.

Can you tell us about the main export markets for pigmeat and poultry?

Irish pigmeat is exported to over 60 markets worldwide with exports valued at €462 million last year.

In 2025, the top three highest value markets were the UK, China, and Australia. Poland and Germany were the highest value EU markets.

The majority of Irish poultry exports go to the UK (€104 million from a total of €159 million), with EU markets accounting for just under €34 million last year.  

Africa is an important market for other parts of the carcass such as chicken feet, chicken backs, and offal.

How important is Quality Assurance for the pigmeat sector?

Irish pigmeat stands out because of its full traceability and strong sustainability credentials, which are leveraged through the Bord Bia Quality Assurance programme.

This gives customers confidence right back to farm level and supports how we communicate Ireland’s overall food story in international markets.

The pigmeat sector has faced some challenges, how is it responding?

Despite facing significant challenges in recent years, there remains a strong focus at farm level and at processor level within the pig sector on efficiency, sustainability, and meeting market needs.

Bord Bia’s role is to continue supporting that journey and helping the sector tell its story clearly and credibly, both at home and internationally.