Following weeks of uncertainty, the European mature pigs market has developed favourably over the past week, according to German industry group ISN. Demand has increased across Europe on the back of settled, summery weather, and a decline in availability of mature pigs has led to price rises across the board.

The most notable price increase this week was in Germany, where producers have been struggling under pressure from slaughter companies, who they say are offering artificially low prices and stifling markets. Nevertheless, this week prices rose by 6 cents. The same 6 sent increase was seen in Belgium and the Netherlands.

In Austria and France, prices rose by a converted 5 cents. In Spain, the price remained stable for a second week, though Spain remains atop the pricing table of major EU producers and a further upward movement is expected in the country.

ISN said that, as warm temperatures affect consumer demand and pigs' growth, squeezing the quantities on offer, the situation for pig keepers looks good. For countries with a high level of tourism, the peak season has yet to arrive, and could lead to further rises.