Disease levels to dent EU pig numbers

By Peter Crichton

THERE are signs that EU numbers could start to slip in some of the major producing countries due to a surge in disease levels on breeding units, particularly in France and Spain.

EU vets are reporting a number of outbreaks of aujeskeys and blue ear diseases which have led to a leap in on farm mortality and a potential pig shortage in these areas in the months ahead.

UK abattoirs have also seen a slightly better uptake on the home market helped to some extent by the recent colder weather and the end of the holiday period in sight.

Although this weeks UK AESA slipped 1.01p/kg to stand at 84.52p spot market quotes today (Friday) are expected to be “stand on” at worst and the chances of some modest increases in areas where pigs are short.

However, for many producers and their bankers this September is seen as a target for a price rally and unless this starts to gain speed in the next four weeks more herd clearances will take place.