The European mature pigs market has taken a downturn this week. German producers' group ISN said the weakening market is due to slaughter companies putting increasing pressure on prices since the start of September.

This has resulted in an 8 cent drop for the benchmark German quotation. The knock-on effects were felt in neighbouring countries (Netherlands, Belgium, Austria).

Nevertheless, the Spanish, French and Danish quotations showed no change. In addition to the sideways movement in Western Europe, the British quotation even showed a slight increase.

According to the topagrar magazine, Spanish pork exports fell by 13 percent over the first six months of the year, compared to last year's figures, with exports destined for Russia being worst hit (falling up to 24 percent). However, ISN reported that some Spanish plants may resume exports to Russia in October.

ISN predicted that the situation in Europe would remain the same for the next week or so, with producers eager to sell now to avoid lower prices.