German industry group ISN said on Tuesday that "there is no news from the European mature pigs market." Though the group last week identified some weakening prices in some regions, analysts said this week that "The market appears well balanced and steady… so prices are moving sideways overall."

ISN speculated hopefully that a potential price increase in Germany after weeks of balanced supply and demand "might herald a seasonal increase of prices" throughout Europe. So far, Britain has been relatively well shielded from fluctuating prices seen elsewhere.

The industry group pointed to a slight price increase in France (+0.7 cents, following weeks of price drops) as a "cautious signal" of better things to come. However, the group acknowledged, "Apart from that, the cool and wet weather which prevails all over Europe for the time being has upset producers' plans," adding that, for many producers, export sales are also flagging.  

ISN added that there is evidence of improving demand in Italy and Poland.