Buyers drop pig prices depsite higher DAPP

Although the GB Euro Deadweight Adjusted Pig Price rose slightly over the week to close at 152.92p/kg, coupled with a slightly stronger euro, weekly contract and spot prices eased across the board, writes Farmers Weekly pig commentator Peter Crichton.

Weekly contract base prices announced by Woodheads fell by 2p to 152p/kg with others from Vion, Cranswick and Tulip down and within a fairly narrow 148.5p to 151p range.

Spot bacon buyers were also less active and as a result bids were on average 2p lower on the week with most quotes in the 146p-150p/kg range according to region and specification.

However, a firmer euro has helped to improve cull sow prices despite relatively static European demand.

The three main cull sow abattoirs were offering prices between 100p and 104p/kg with small premiums available for large loads according to specification.

Despite recent slight falls in forward cereal prices, demand for 30kg weaners remains lacklustre and the latest AHDB 30kg ex-farm weaner average eased during the week and now stands at £45.61/head.

If finished and weaner pig prices follow seasonal trends, further price reductions are anticipated between now and the end of the year before any significant rally occurs, but the market will also remain heavily influenced by the value of the euro.