Carcase weights rising as pig prices slip

By Bethan Wilkins

Following a slight dip last week, decline in finished pig prices accelerated a little in the latest week. The EU-spec SPP fell to 160.22p/kg in the week ended 14 August, down by 0.57p. Relatively low prices on the continent, as well as reports of difficulties processing pigs through the supply chain, will have contributed to this change. Pig prices are now back to around mid-July levels, and remain more than 3p below a year earlier.

Estimated slaughter was relatively low at 163,400 head, reinforcing the reports of a backlog of pigs developing on some farms. The average carcase weight was also up nearly 1kg from last week at 87.20kg.

7kg weaner prices have fallen in the latest week, losing £2.25 to stand at £38.93/head. Downward pressure is not unexpected given any backlog of slaughter pigs is likely to disrupt weaner movements and ultimately limit demand. The recent downward movement in finished pig prices would also be expected to dampen the weaner market.

The week ended 7 August also saw a decline in the EU-spec APP, as prices fell by 0.37p to 165.36p/kg. This meant the gap compared to the SPP narrowed to 4.57p. Prices are about 1.5p below the corresponding week last year.

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