German pig industry body ISN has revealed that the current atmosphere in the European pigs-for-slaughter market remains supportive. Prices remain stable in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium and Austria, where ISN said supply and demand are balanced.

ISN analysts said, “Although there are complaints from the slaughter companies and the meat merchants about insufficient margins, the low quantities of pigs on offer can be placed completely and promptly.”

However, in Europe’s Southern states, where heat and, in some cases, drought have affected weight gain and quantities on offer, prices are rising steadily. In France, prices rose +3 cents per kg slaughter weight over the past week. In Spain, prices rose +2 cents this week, though ISN said this is more in keeping with seasonal norms.

Although demand remains steady, the low slaughter weights of the live pigs are ensuring prices remain in producers’ favour. Slaughter weights are down in southern Europe, with Spanish weights around 4 kg below last year’s average.

ISN said the steady prices and pattern of balanced availability and demand is likely to endure.

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