EU pig prices stablilising

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) said pig prices appear to be stabilising, but are still low.

Compared to the price four weeks ago, the EU average reference pig price has fallen by less than €1/100kg, and it has remained steady for the past three weeks, said AHDB red meat analyst Rebecca Wright. In the week ended 21 November the measure stood at €128.58/100kg. Although stable, prices are low.

Export demand is still sluggish although there is some optimism that China could be looking for more protein soon. Heading into the holiday season, EU demand may also increase slightly.

UK production, however, appears to still be strong. But fewer very young pigs on the ground in June could indicate a drop in supplies soon.

Spain, in contrast to many other countries, recorded an increase in its pig herd during the summer, suggesting supply is ample, but the largest decline in prices (-€4/100kg).

Reports indicate demand for Spanish pork is challenged. Prices were steady in Germany, the Netherlands and Poland, said Wright.

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Tags: export demand, China, price, EU, Production, AHDB, pig prices, pig herd