Northern Ireland and UK prices continue to rise

There was no change in southern prices this week with Glanbia, Dawn and Galtee prices all remained unchanged. Producers are now getting from €1.24 to €1.29 per kg and the average is €1.25 - €1.26/kg.

In Northern Ireland producers continue to get a boost from the weaker sterling and got another 4c lift in prices. They are getting between €1.30 to €1.34/kg while the average price is €1.31c/kg. Demand remains strong in the North and there are larger numbers of southern pigs going across the border.

In the UK contract prices increased by 6 to 11 cent this week, ranging from approx. €1.55 to €1.57/kg. Spot prices were unchanged making from €1.52 to €1.66/ kg (85kg to 55kg dw). The UK pigmeat production is expected to decline by more than 4% or nearly 450,000 head on last year levels according to the latest forecast published by the Meat and Livestock commission. This will bring numbers down to 9.8 million, the lowest level in 30 years.

In Denmark average price is €1.13 excluding the end of year bonus. There was no change in prices in Germany, Belgium and Holland. In France prices lifted by 1c/kg while Spanish pig farmers got a rise of 5c/kg this week.

Demand for sows is steady with most quote's ranging between €20-€24/cwt available.