Pig farmers disillusioned after a 6c/kg price cut

IFA said pig farmers are very disillusioned after a 6c/kg price cut this week. Price cuts in January are the norm due to large quantities of product building up in stores.

But cuts are completely unjustified now because there is no meat in stores and demand on the home market is strong, according to IFA, who said export plants now generally quote for pigs at €1.36 to €1.40 flat rate, plus the welfare bonus of two to six cent. Pork slaughterers also offer €1.36 to €1.40.

Sow prices stay at €32 to €39 per cwt liveweight, and weaners at €42 to €46 for 32 kg.