Pig market is a barrel full of setbacks and disappointments

The pig market remains mired in a vortex of flux in mid-November, a trend that has spread from the Netherlands across Europe. Prices are falling in Germany, as are those in Spain. Danish Crown, however, made no further reductions this week. Dutch slaughterhouses are leading the way with reductions. This is an atypical trend that hasn't occurred at this time of year in recent years. 

Several sources in the market are reporting that Van Rooi Meat recently lost its China certification, which would be a new setback for the Dutch pig sector. The company itself was unavailable for comment Friday afternoon. This wouldn't be the first time. In 2021 and 2022, Van Rooi also lost its certification for eighteen months to export pork and by-products to China. For the latter category in particular, the market is crucial for achieving full carcass valuation. 

meat market
Amid falling pork prices, Christmas sales in Europe are gaining momentum. This is also evident from DCA Market Intelligence's spare parts prices this week. Why the pressure on the live pork market is so intense remains a mystery. Nevertheless, slaughterhouses are currently claiming that margins are under pressure. It is true, however, that whole and half carcasses are difficult to market, and the euro remains strong. Furthermore, slaughterhouses in Europe have been known to face Chinese import duties since September.

The DCA Stock Market Price 2.0 must follow the downward trend initiated by slaughterhouses. Based on the figures, the price of slaughtered pigs will fall again by €0,06 to €1,50 per kilo. The price for live pigs will drop by €0,05 to €1,15 per kilo.

Click here for an explanation from DCA Market Intelligence on the listing.