In line with predictions made last week, the EU mature pig market has been supportive of producers in the past week.

European pork’s competitiveness has had an effect on export markets, particularly in Asia, though prices within the bloc have been healthy, supported by good weather. The majority of countries’ quotations went up noticeably last week.

Dutch producers enjoyed the largest rise last week; there quotations rose by 7.5 cents. In Germany, too, prices rose, with the quotation rising by 6 cents. Prices in the two states are currently €1.50/kg (£1.24) and €1.56/kg (£1.29) respectively.

The Spanish, French, Belgian and Austrian quotations also went up by 4 to 5 cents each. Only in Denmark and Italy did prices remain unchanged.  

In the UK, the rise was less marked, following several weeks of steady increases. A converted 1 cent price increase brought quotations up to £1.59/kg (€1.93).

Looking forwards, German group ISN said, "The mood continues to be optimistic. Now that only two weeks are left until Easter… The slaughter companies' need is extended and thus, the prices are expected to remain unchanged at least."