Prices hold despite stronger €

PIG PRICES have held steady this week (w/e Dec 3), despite the strengthening euro.

The current GB Euro Deadweight Adjusted Pig Price (DAPP) is 99.93p/kg, down almost 8% compared with the same period last year. The Euro mainland average pig price has closed with the UK to 95p/kg.

Spot and contract pig prices for the week commencing Nov 29 are showing a slightly easier trend with baconers traded at 98-102p/kg and lighter weight selling at a 4-6p/kg premium.

Cull sow quotes continue to be helped by the relative strength of the Euro which opened on Mon 29 Nov at 70.2p.

Sow exporters are currently quoting 84-87p/kg compared with just 64-67p/kg in Nov 2003.

The MLC 30kg average weaner price was £30.70/head ex farm, but that is still some £2-4 below cost of production levels and compares with £34.13 a year ago.