Pig price rally stalls

THE RALLY in UK pig prices has been stopped in its tracks by a second week of falling EU pig prices.

The EU mainland average producer price of 90.5p has dropped by almost 7% over the last two weeks. 

The GB Euro Deadweight Adjusted Pig Price posted on March 31 showed a marginal rise to 105.72p, compared with 108.87p a year ago.

Spot bacon prices also eased slightly, and most abattoirs bought in the 109–112p/kg range according to region and availability, with 3 – 5p more available for lighter weights.

Cull sow prices took the biggest tumble, losing 5–7p in value (£10/sow) due to generally lower EU manufacturing pigmeat quotes.

Most cull sow abattoirs were bidding in the 82–87p/kg range compared with over 90p a week earlier.

Signs of weakness in the finished pig market have yet to affect weaner prices.

The Meat and Livestock Commission 30kg weaner average rose again this week to stand at £34.48/head ex farm.

But uncertain prospects for finished pig prices this summer may bring the weaner price rally to a halt.

Another negative factor has been the rise in the value of the pound against the euro, which opened on Mon 4 April at 68.7p.