January 13, 2010

EU pig prices show inconsistency

Market prices for slaughter pigs show no consistency trends across Europe this week.

While pig price decreased in Sweden, increases were shown in the Netherlands and Great Britain. Prices remained the same in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Germany and Spain.

The price decrease in Sweden makes the country play the role of the new taillight in Europe. In the Netherlands, the price went up to the pre-Christmas level again. In Germany, the unchanged pig price is mostly attributed to the winter weather conditions and pig feeders' reduced readiness for release related to the cold weather. Pig transport is also more difficult with current arduous road conditions.

This week, prices are expected to remain steady this week as supply and demand are seen to be well-balanced.