September 25, 2008

EU predicts a 4.7 percent drop in swine production this autumn

The European Commission is forecasting a 4.7 percent fall in pig production across the EU in the final quarter of this year, reports NPA general manager Barney Kay.

European pork imports are running at around 2,000 tonnes a month more than last year but exports of pigmeat are up 48 percent, comparing July 2007 with July this year.

Most countries expect better prices this autumn as supplies tighten but they see the biggest impact being felt in the first half of next year. All agree the price rises seen so far have not been sufficient to return producers to profit.

Weaner prices have started to improve on the continent, but are not yet near the levels of 2006. However weaner producers are getting closer to profit following two extremely difficult years.