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 that quoted above and the same is the case for farmers selling pigs on the grading pricing structure in the South.
The average price for grade E pig carcasses in week 17 was €1.68/kg (excluding VAT), reporting no change compared with last week’s average price, however, when compared to the previous month prices have risen 0.4% while the prices still trail 17.6% below the same period last year.
According to the latest reports from Agritel, fuel prices are again unstable and expected to rise due to the current tensions in the middle east. This, accompanied by the slight decline of the Euro/Dollar in recent days has led to increased demand for feeds such as rapeseed and maize. However, favourable weather has raised the prospects for the 2026 harvest in parts of the world which is maintaining prices.
For pig farmers again this week profit margins are under pressure. This means cost control is an essential aspect of every pig farm at the moment to maximize return.
