There was no change in Irish pig prices on Friday last, with producers reporting a broad spread of prices across the Republic of Ireland. Those operating under the graded pricing system have reported slightly higher prices for certain pig weight categories, though the average price for pigs processed this week remains between €1.74/kg and €1.78/kg. Pig farmers who are selling their pigs to the North are on higher prices than those quoted above and the same is the case for farmers selling pigs on the grading pricing structure in the South.
The weekly throughput, as reported by the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine for week ending the 10th of May was 57,756 of which 1,709 were sows.
The average price for grade E pig carcasses in week 18 was €1.67/kg (excluding VAT), reporting an 0.3% decrease compared with last week’s average price and when compared to the previous month prices have dropped 0.1%, this price also trails 18.4% behind the same period last year.
While average prices for pigmeat have remained relatively stable this week reports from Europe suggest reductions in sow prices, which is beginning to be reflected in the Irish market also. Agritel’s latest reports also show a strong demand internationally for cereals and other feeds.
Pricing pressure from costs and revenues on pig farmers seems to be continuing for pigmeat producers. It is important that these farmers manage their costs to protect margins over the coming weeks.
