Beating EU pig prices

PIG prices started the week 4c/kg lower, ranging from 126 to 130 cent/kg, after supplies increased to Southern plants.

Northern Ireland prices ranged from 132 to 136 cent/kg, with contract prices of 1.34 to the end of January and 1.36 to the end of February on offer.

Export plants in the south quote 126 to 130 cent/kg net, on a flat rate basis, with a 7 or 8 cent per kg bonus for “welfare friendly” pigs.

There is steady demand for pork, with prices quoted from 130 to 134 cent/kg.

Weaners: regular outlets steady from 40 to 44 (£31 to £34 for 32 kgs) in all areas.

Sows: trade back to 18 to 20/cwt liveweight.

The Irish average price of 1.31 per kg for the week ended November 30 was 7.5% ahead of the EU average price of 1.31 per kg.

Slaughterings for the week were 56,177 pigs and 1,762 sows.