Pork imports up 28% in first quarter

By FWi staff

PORK imports rose 28% during the first quarter of this year to 59,111 tonnes, according to Meat and Livestock Commission figures.

Strong demand for Continental pork and reduced domestic supplies means the trend will continue, says the MLCs Mick Sloyan.

The strong Pound is also making pork from the Continent much cheaper.

Over the past year, the UK pig herd size has fallen by 10-15%, with weekly slaughterings down by about 11%.

Contract prices have risen by about 20p/kg in the last five months.

“Although we may start to see a slight recovery in prices on the Continent, the short UK market and low supply will mean that UK pigmeat will continue to trade at a premium,” adds Mr Sloyan.

Imports from the Netherlands and Denmark gained most. MLC figures show that Denmark now accounts for 20,464t, a 19% increase on first quarter 1999 levels, while Dutch supplies have doubled to 13,490t.