Uncertainties in livestock farming are noticeable on the feed market

Confidence among livestock farmers has never been greater. The milk price seems to have reached its lowest point, but limiting the derogation and the consequences this has for the manure placement space and the manure market certainly does not help the mood. The decision to buy silage grass or corn is postponed. 'Let's first see what happens in the coming weeks and what we actually need' seems to be the prevailing thought among buyers.

The trade in by-products continues a bit. Some by-product suppliers are slowly starting up after a planned stop between Christmas and New Year, while others have gone crazy. Occasionally there is compromise, but in general it does not cause any unforeseen problems. The DCA Indicative Price for spent grain remains stable at €4,10 per percent dry matter. Feed potatoes are rarely offered. The DCA Indicative Price this week is €60 per tonne.

Buyers are concerned about the price
It is not really busy in silage maize, but buyers are getting information. The DCA Indicative Price has taken a step up and amounts to €100 per tonne. Prices do vary considerably between traders and regions. Grass silage is a very tame market. Good silage grass is difficult to obtain. Sellers are well aware of this and they therefore charge decent prices. Regular customers go along with this. Livestock farmers who are not sure that they need grass silage are waiting. The DCA Indicative Price for silage is €100 per tonne.

Hay and straw do not show any major changes. The regular work continues, but otherwise it is quiet. The DCA Indicative Price for both wheat and barley straw remains stable at €140 per tonne. Meadow hay remains the same at €190 per tonne. There is limited trade in grass seed hay due to low supply. For good grass seed hay, the DCA Indicative Price is €170 per tonne. For questionable grass seed hay, prices can quickly drop a few tens of euros lower.