Bulgaria: Livestock and Products Annual
Bulgaria’s livestock sector continues to stabilize following reforms and disease outbreaks last year. Cattle and swine inventories increased in 2016 as farmers increased their herds with breeding stock. Post’s industry sources indicate that herd growth will continue through the end of the year. Bulgaria’s 2017 epizootic situation has been more stable to date, although pork producers remain vigilant for detections of African swine fever (ASF). 2017 meat stocks are growing as the pork stocks increase and compensate for a decline in beef stocks. Pork continues to be the most widely produced and consumed meat in Bulgaria. Beef remains an emerging sector, but consumer demand for higher-quality beef is increasing. Bulgaria remains a net importer of pork and beef. Consumption patterns are driven by higher disposable-income levels, an evolving and more dynamic food service sector, and tourism.