Analysts say that this practice causes sharp price fluctuations and results in inefficient feed use — both of which clash with China’s strategic goals, especially in the context of the trade war with the U.S. and a national push to reduce grain usage in livestock production.
“This can lead to short-term shortages followed by oversupply, causing significant price swings and unsettling the market,” said Pan Chenjun, senior animal protein analyst at Rabobank.
China’s largest pig producer, Muyuan Foods, announced in May that it had suspended sales of pigs to refattening buyers after rumors of an upcoming policy crackdown emerged. According to sources cited by Reuters, the crackdown is already underway, particularly in provinces like Guangdong, which is enforcing restrictions more strictly.
Cash hog prices in China have hovered around 14 yuan/kg since February — down from a peak of 21 yuan/kg last August — contributing to slim profit margins and a surplus of pork on the market.
Refattened pigs contribute to oversupply once they are marketed, worsening price drops. According to Bric Agriculture Group analyst Lin Guofa, a 150-kg pig produces 42% more pork than a standard 115-kg pig, but the feed efficiency declines sharply after the pigs exceed 120 kg.
At this weight, pigs consume more feed but gain less body mass, making the practice economically and environmentally inefficient. The government’s actions reflect its intent to stabilize pork prices, protect small farmers, and curb speculative activity that could further destabilize the already fragile pork sector.
Authorities have not yet made formal public statements, but the signals from industry leaders and regulatory trends suggest that the refattening crackdown will intensify in the coming months as China aims to reshape its pork production model for greater sustainability and food security.
reuters.com