Swine; live (heading 0103): importing markets
Live swine (HS 0103) is a regulated commodity with veterinary controls and specific entry requirements by country. Germany, Poland, and the United States…
Published on 14 September 2026Updated on 22 September 2026
Live swine (HS 0103) is a regulated commodity with veterinary controls and specific entry requirements by country. Germany, Poland, and the United States are the largest importers. Exports from Spain benefit from EU mutual recognition but face tariffs and quotas in key non-EU markets.
Fact sheet
- Code
- 0103
- Chapter
- 01 · Animals; live
- Subheadings
- 3
Main importing markets
USD · 2025| Country | Imports (USD) |
|---|---|
| Germany | 945,318,811 |
| Poland | 817,168,179 |
| United States | 633,158,012 |
| Spain | 511,375,991 |
| Hong Kong SAR China | 422,795,879 |
| Italy | 210,988,184 |
| Portugal | 193,610,537 |
| Netherlands | 115,136,972 |
| Austria | 108,984,025 |
| United Kingdom | 107,906,145 |
| Hungary | 105,258,033 |
| Romania | 101,288,614 |
| Belgium | 64,139,936 |
| Macao SAR China | 44,282,758 |
| Georgia | 40,981,119 |
Imports declared by each country from the world. Countries report with a delay: the period is the latest with consolidated data.
Source: UN ComtradeData for 2025Verified on 22 September 2026
What you need to export live swine
Live animal exports are controlled at the border by official veterinary services. Every shipment requires a health certificate issued by the competent authority in Spain before departure. For exports within the EU, the certificate format is standardized; for third countries, the importing country defines its own template.
The exporting farm must be registered and compliant with EU animal welfare standards (transport, housing, handling). Spain's Ministry of Agriculture maintains the register of eligible farms and trading posts. [A CONFIRMAR: verify current registration requirements with your regional agriculture authority].
For exports to the United States, Australia, and other restricted markets, the importing country may require an import permit issued before shipment. Check with the destination country's agricultural agency; delays in permit issuance can be weeks. [A CONFIRMAR: current processing times by country].
Tariffs vary by destination. EU member states apply zero tariffs on live swine within the single market. The United States applies a 1.4% tariff on live pigs; China applies tariffs ranging from 10% to 25% depending on the agreement phase. [A CONFIRMAR: verify current tariff schedules for your target market].
Transport of live animals is governed by Regulation (EC) 1/2005. Journeys over 8 hours require rest and watering stops. For long-distance exports (over 24 hours), a specialized licensed transporter is mandatory. Journey plans must be approved by Spain's transport authority before departure.
Border crossings into non-EU countries may require quarantine inspection (typically 24–48 hours at the entry port). Costs are borne by the exporter. Delays due to failed inspections result in the shipment being sent back or, in worst cases, culled.
Questions about exporting live swine
What health certificate do I need for exports within the EU?
A standard EU health certificate (form available from your regional agriculture ministry). It certifies that the animals are free from notifiable diseases and come from an EU-registered holding. Certificate validity is typically 10 days from issue; no import license is needed between member states.
Can I export to the United States without a specific importer lined up?
No. The US importer must apply for an import permit through USDA APHIS before the shipment is sent. The exporting farm must also be registered with USDA as a supplier. Plan 4–8 weeks for the US permit process. [A CONFIRMAR: current processing times].
What do I need to know about transport costs for long-distance shipments?
Specialized livestock transporters charge per animal per km, plus fixed costs for veterinary checks, loading, and permits. Journeys over 24 hours are more expensive due to rest stops and higher welfare requirements. Request quotes from licensed EU transporters; prices vary by season and destination.
Which countries have import quotas for Spanish live swine?
The United States and some Asian markets operate tariff-rate quotas (TRQs): a lower tariff applies within a quota volume, and a higher tariff above it. EU and some partner countries have negotiated preferential rates. [A CONFIRMAR: current quota allocations and validity periods by country].
What if my shipment fails health inspection at the border?
The importing country may require reshipment to your origin country or culling, depending on the disease detected. Insurance and contingency plans are essential. Contact your destination country's agricultural authority in advance to understand their specific rejection protocols.
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