Euros rise levels out pig prices

By Peter Crichton

THE recent rise in the value of the Euro seems to have levelled out and UK spot pig prices have followed suit this week.

Currently (23 June, pm) the Euro is valued at 62.5p which was almost exactly the same price a year ago.

However, the strength of Sterling continues to pull in imports which are undercutting the home market.

Although the UK AESA put on a further 2.84p this week to stand at 99.40p/kg deadweight, spot quotes have stalled with most weights traded in the 98-104p/kg band.

Retailers have reported fairly buoyant demand for the time of year, but warn that this could dip once the holiday period starts in four weeks time.

Retail demand has been helped by recent promotions and the barbecue trade.

The picture in Europe also remains firm on the price front and the Dutch AEX futures price is holding up well in the 84-87p/kg range.

Trade sources quote that this market “looks firm through to the end of the year”.

Cull sow prices are forecast to be a shade easier next week due to the strength of the Pound, which puts most bids in the 69-72p/kg deadweight bracket.

Weaner quotes are holding steady with the Farmers Weekly 30kg average for the week quoted at 34.58/head and 7kg pigs between 19-23.50, according to quality and region.

• Peter Crichton is a Suffolk-based pig farmer offering independent valuation and consultancy services to the UK pig industry