Spanish pig farmers are being paid significantly less for their meat while shoppers are paying more than ever, according to new figures.
Data from farming union COAG shows that the price of pork at source has fallen by nearly 29% over the past two years, while retail prices have risen by 6.9%, reaching their highest level on record.
The figures point to a widening gap between what farmers earn and what consumers pay, in a disparity the organisation describes as ‘unjustified’.
In April 2024, farmers were receiving €1.83 per kilo of pork, while consumers paid €6.45 – already a significant difference.
Fast forward to April 2026, and the situation has worsened. The price at origin has dropped to €1.30 per kilo, while supermarket prices have climbed to €6.90.
That means the gap between farm and shelf has widened to €5.31 per kilo – a margin of 431%, according to the Indice de Precios en Origen y Destino (IPOD).
Producers lose out
COAG argues that the data reveals a structural problem as falling prices at farm level are not being passed on to consumers.
Instead, the difference is being absorbed or retained within the supply chain, particularly by processors and distributors.
Throughout 2025 and early 2026, while farmers’ incomes steadily declined, retail prices remained stable or continued to rise.
‘This reflects a transfer of income away from producers,’ the organisation warns.
Calls for transparency
In response, COAG is calling on Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture to restore greater transparency in how food prices are set.
Specifically, it is urging the government to resume publishing detailed studies on the value chain and production costs of basic food products – reports that have not been updated in recent years.
According to Andoni Garcia, COAG’s head of food supply chains, the lack of public data is a serious issue.
‘It’s not a minor request. These studies are essential to understanding how prices evolve and ensuring transparency,’ he said, accusing authorities of a ‘negligent failure’ to maintain oversight.
Pressure on both ends
The current situation leaves both farmers and consumers under strain.
Producers face shrinking margins and reduced income, while households continue to deal with high food prices despite falling costs at the source.
