Is the piglet market ripe for a second increase?

The price increase on the Dutch piglet market has sparked a lot of discussion. Some think the increase is more than justified and argue for a second one. Others talk about hyped-up hype, based on a few export couples who find it easier to get a job. It sets the mood on the piglet market on edge. 

Regional differences in Germany
The German piglet price (North/West quotation) has remained stuck at €41,50 per piglet. This is also the expected quote for this week. There are some differences per region in Germany. For example, the piglet price in Bavaria and Baden Württemberg (southern Germany) increased by €0,50. Shortages on the market are prevented by German fattening pig farmers, because their urge to feed is extremely low.

On balance, trade is pushing for a second increase in the Dutch piglet price. This means that the DCA BestPigletPrice increases again, this time by €1 to €37 per piglet. Since the broken weeks around Christmas will also disrupt piglet sales, this could well be the last increase for 2017, the thinking goes.

Unchanged market, unchanged price
Despite the fact that some slaughterhouses seem to be pulling in quite a bit of pigs, there is no room for improvement on the pig market. There is some difference in supply per region, but roughly speaking there are enough pigs in the Netherlands this week to cover the demand. The trade still considers itself lucky when they manage to complete sales. Piglet sales are going faster, it is said. 

The hope for a Christmas revival on the European pig market has been decimated to zero for many. The aim now is to keep the odds unchanged for as long as possible. If the market situation remains unchanged, Vion will keep the pig price for this week unchanged at €1,45 per kilo.