Piglet price remains rock-solid

In the primary sector's view, the pig price recovery in June ended too soon. However, the outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) near the border gives a different view on the matter. Optimism has given way to tension and uncertainty† The pull is thus out of the blue, which also weakens the demand for piglets.

The piglet trade is currently going smoothly. This is also due to weak export demand from Spain and Germany. The sales figures to Germany touched a new low in the past week, well below 50.000 units. The downward trend has not yet stopped. Spanish buyers do offer, but often below the quotation levels. Spanish exports do not charge, according to traders. Domestic demand is also tame. In fattening pig farming, earnings are comparatively better than in sow farmers, but the prospects are uncertain. This is of course always the case, but due to the AVP threat, this is now extra large.

New impulses necessary 
The supply of slaughter sows is still large and many sow places have disappeared. Both in the Netherlands and Germany. This may provide additional relief later this year in the form of a tighter supply. However, much will depend on the demand for piglets and that in turn is related to pig prices. They are currently paying their taxes. In other words, the market needs impulses to take yields to the next level.

The German piglet price (VEZG) is again unchanged this week at €42,50 per piglet. The DCA BestPigletPrice, based on the input from Dutch pig traders, remains at a standstill at €41,50 per piglet.

Click here for an explanation of the DCA BestPigletPrice.