Piglet prices continue to rise, pig market also moves

The piglet market can be summarized in a few words: demand exceeds supply. This has resulted in an increase in the DCA BestPigletPrice from €4 to €39 per piglet. High bids for current flocks are coming in, particularly from Spain, but demand is also high in Germany. It's a matter of chance from week to week as to which market receives more Dutch piglets.

Spanish integrations initially held back due to the outbreak of African swine fever in the country, but confidence appears to be returning. Spanish demand often peaks in week 8, so numbers are expected to increase in the coming weeks. The 50.000 mark may then be surpassed again, as was the case in week 2. 

There's also high demand for piglets on the domestic market, as is typical at this time of year when exports are a major competitor. At the same time, there's also resistance to the rapid increases. The costs often outweigh the benefits. The hope is that this will actually happen in 2026.

Higher DCA Exchange Mutation Price
In that case, the pork price will be the driving force in the coming months. There are signs that the market is slowly awakening from its winter hibernation. Demand for meat is increasing somewhat, as evidenced by the rising DCA parts prices. Prices for hams, necks, and shoulders are rising, for example. Ham prices, in particular, are making a real impact, as they are a heavyweight in the carcass.

Whether pig prices will rise this week remains to be seen. Traders are convinced that something is possible, given that weekly premiums are sometimes increasing again. Slaughterhouses are still cautious, but things are starting to pick up again. Consequently, the DCA Exchange Mutation Price will rise by €0,01 per kilo.

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