German pig meat trade organisation ISN said on Tuesday that pressure is still being exerted on EU pig prices this week. Starting in Germany, where the concerted price went down by 5 cents, prices also fell by the same margin in immediate neighbours Austria and Belgium. The price in the Netherlands dropped by 7 cents, the most severe fall in the bloc this week.

The pig prices also continued their downward slide in southern Europe. The Spanish quotation was reduced by a converted 2 cents. Thus, the Spanish had to give up their top ranking among the five major pig-keeping EU member countries after a long period of time.

In contrast to the trend elsewhere, the Danish quotation rose by 4 cents. ISN said, “Even reports about the situation on the export markets do not sound that negative in Denmark as they do in the other European countries.”

EU producers, including those in the UK, have warned that depressed prices are threatening the future of the industry, as producers cannot reinvest in their business. Producers have warned that current pressures, which are leading some producers to go bust or abandon production, may mean less pig meat is available for consumers over the next few years, despite its growing popularity in some states.

However, across the EU as a whole, meat consumption is contracting slightly, with the exception of poultry meat. EU analysts have said this trend is likely to continue over coming years as Europeans choose perceived 'healthier options' and less 'resource-dense' foods.

Regarding the situation of continued depressed prices developing in Central Europe, ISN analysts warned that “From the farmers’ point of view, the major slaughter companies’ internal cohesion to pay internal prices these days is quite worrying. This in particular applies in light of the price development in Denmark.” The trade body suggested current pricing is unfair and has been orchestrated by the slaughter companies, adding “At present, it is impossible to know whether or not the pressure will diminish at short notice. So the further price development is quite uncertain.”

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