Sow farmers in particular burped well

Dutch pig farming has managed to maintain the high income of 2016 this year as well. However, major differences are visible within the sector, according to figures from Wageningen University and Research (WUR).

For example, the average income on a sow farm has increased by 20% to €190.000 per unpaid annual work unit (AWU). Despite the fact that the pig price rose by 2017% in 10, the income of fattening pig farmers is falling by €45.000 to €79.000 per aje. This is mainly due to the rising piglet and feed costs. During this year, several piglet quotations reached high levels.

Closed pig farms achieved an average income of €158.000. What is striking is that the average income of both multipliers and pig farmers exceeds the average income of agriculture and horticulture (€71.000). This didn't happen often in the past.

Limited growth opportunities
WUR expects lower pig prices in the short term (2018), as 2017 was probably the peak of the pig cycle. Increasing competition in the global market is expected from the pig sector in the United States (US). The strengthening euro is also likely to weaken competitiveness. 

Wouter Job

Wouter Baan is editor-in-chief of Boerenbusiness. He also focuses on dairy, pig and meat markets. He also follows (business) developments within agribusiness and interviews CEOs and policymakers.

w.baan@boerenbusiness. Nl

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