Piglet sales are not getting any easier

Many fattening pig farmers had set their sights on higher pig prices in recent weeks, so that the relatively expensive price paid in March was somewhat recouped. The higher pork prices seem to be an illusion for the time being, despite the fact that the pig supply is not excessively large these days.

The 'boom price' that the large slaughterhouses have been applying since last week has not done piglet exports in Germany any good. Exporters say that German fattening pig farmers are becoming less and less inclined to stock piglets. Also because the manure sales in Germany causes the necessary problems. There are rumors that some companies will compensate for the overcrowded manure pits in the coming months by stocking fewer piglets. These are not encouraging sounds for piglet sales during the summer months.

Situations differ
Since the pig market is lagging behind, slaughterhouses are also cautiously indicating that the piglet price may have to be adjusted to correct the ratio (piglet costs versus fattening pig price). These sounds can be seen as a signal that higher pig prices are not feasible in the short to medium term. The German piglet price is not showing any signs of decreasing for the time being and will probably remain at €45 per piglet this week, given that the trend report has not changed.

In the Netherlands, the situation varies per trader. While one person manages to complete sales, the other is left with a few couples. The statements from DCA Markets show that the DCA BPP is moving downwards; these are lower than in the recent weeks. However, the market is not yet clear in favor of a reduction, so the quotation remains at €40 per piglet.

Pig price Vion
Vion's pig price at €1,45 per kilo. According to the slaughterhouse, the meat sales markets show almost the same picture as last week. Price pressure on necks and bacon is offset by slightly friendlier sales of hams. According to Vion, the limited supply is the reason why the pig price remains unchanged.