EU sow prices falling

By Bethan Wilkins

Since February, sow prices in the EU have shown some volatility across the main markets, following the pattern in the finished pig market. Although there had been some uplift in February, fortunes have turned and quotes for the latest week are now, in general, lower than the start of the year. They are still significantly higher than last year though.

Demand has been fickle across the pork market, reflecting changes in Chinese export prospects and the recent closure of most European foodservice outlets. Lately, reports suggest demand has been insufficient for supply and cold stores have been filling. Prices have therefore been falling.

The key German M1 price was €1.61/kg in the week ended 26 April, similar to levels in early February. However, the VEZG price, quoted for the upcoming week, has dropped significantly compared to last week (-€0.12/kg) suggesting a more significant fall in the M1 average may be imminent.

The picture was similar in Denmark and the Netherlands, with the latest prices at €1.37/kg (w/e 3 May) and €1.69/kg (w/e 26 April) respectively. France has already seen a more severe fall, with the quote for week ended 26 April at €1.17/kg, back to levels last seen in July last year.

Due to close trade links to the German sow market, GB cull sow prices tend to follow the German M1 sow price. Reports already indicate the recent drop in the German market has fed through to prices here, with booking slots also reportedly lower as export demand suffers.

Moving cold storage volumes continues to be challenged by both the lack of European foodservice demand and difficulties with container availability constraining exports. As a net pork exporter, Germany is particularly sensitive to limitations on its export market. Although, the upcoming grilling season might provide some support to German consumption, especially if Germans are unable to take their usual foreign holidays. Nonetheless, there is still no real clarity around when the current challenges may ease, and so the British sow market faces a period of uncertainty.

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