4c/kg pig price rise

The EU average pig price last week stood at 146c per kg, 7% ahead of the Irish average.

A 4c/kg price rise here this week will narrow the gap, according to IFA, which notes that the Northern Irish price also continues stronger than the price south of the border.

Export plants mostly offer a flat rate 140 to 149 cent/kg, plus the welfare bonus of 2 to 6c. Pork slaughterers quote from 146 to 150c. The 32 kg weaners are at €48 to 50, and sows are at €24 to 28 per cwt liveweight.