UK pig farming industry faces a new crisis

The UK pig farming industry is facing a sharp deterioration in economic conditions due to oversupply, low farmgate prices and processors terminating contracts. The National Pig Association (NPA) warns that independent producers are already being forced to reduce their herds, while some farmers are leaving the industry altogether.

Pressure on British producers is being intensified by record-low pork prices in Europe. At the same time, production costs are rising, while extreme heat has negatively affected animal productivity. As a result, some farms are being forced to sell pigs at prices well below production costs, losing thousands of pounds each week.

The NPA says the industry is once again “on the edge of a precipice.” Independent pig farmers are particularly vulnerable as they have fewer opportunities to offset falling farmgate prices and rising costs. A further exit of producers from the sector could negatively affect domestic pork production in the UK.

The association has called on the government to develop an urgent support package for the industry. Proposed measures include financial assistance for producers, improvements to market forecasting and prioritizing British pork in public procurement.

The NPA also plans to hold an industry roundtable and is in talks with processors and retailers. In addition, the association is calling on the foodservice sector to increase purchases from domestic producers and improve procurement transparency to ease pressure on British pig farms.

Tags: UK, crisis, pig