Pig prices buck seasonal trend

PRICES HAVE remained remarkably firm for late July, with pigs trading at virtually “stand on” levels in most regions.

The Deadweight Average Pig Price is still holding up well at 106p/kg and the outlook for August is much better than normal.

The main message from the market is that although pig numbers are tight in the EU they are even tighter in Britain and this is the prime factor that has kept the market at recent positive levels.

Cull sow values have also maintained recent levels with the majority quoted in the 73–75p range according to specification.

The weaner market is also holding up well with the Meat and Livestock Commission ex-farm 30kg average of £35.01.

A slight reduction in the value of the euro, which opened on August 2 at 68.9p, should have little effect on the cost of imports.