Positive outlook forecast for all EU meat sectors

SLIGHTLY improved poultry and pork markets, and an ongoing favourable beef market, are predicted for the meat industry in the EU by Rabobank.

A stable to declining trend in global grain and oilseed prices compared to 2011 will be positive for all meat sectors, according to the Dutch-based cooperative multinational financial services provider. However, Rabobank said feed prices, the economy, export markets and exchange rates could easily shift in 2012, posing considerable risks for the sector.

EU farmers may benefit if the financial services provider’s prediction of increasing over-capacity in pork and beef processing materialises. This “will sharpen the fight for raw material”.