November 8, 2006

Hot weather causes supply shortages to Australian pork industry

Pork prices in Australia are rising to record highs due to a supply shortage as hot conditions last summer took a toll on pig numbers. The shortage has also become more acute as Christmas nears.

Greg Richter from Primo Meats at Port Wakefield, in South Australia, said fertility rates fell earlier in the year and the impact is being felt now.

It always shows up about nine months after they have the problem, he said.

The weather, which has been extraordinarily hot this year, affected the fertility of the sows. However, the situation is improving and results are expected to get better near Christmas, Richter said.