January 12, 2005

Hog Prices In Canada Seen To Be Strong In First Half Of 2005

Several factors will influence the direction of Canada's live hog prices in the first half of this year, according to Sask Pork Industry and Policy Analyst Brad Marceniuk.

Some of the main factors that will influence where Canadian hog prices will go in 2005 will include global demand for pork, US slaughter numbers, the Canadian dollar and the basis between US and Canadian and hog markets.

No significant change in pork prices from increased cattle trade is expected in the short term. With anticipated continued strong demand for pork and no major changes in US slaughter numbers in the first half of 2005, hog prices are expected to be strong in the first half of 2005.