Germany: V price 2.20 €/ kg (range 2.20 – 2.25 €/kg) The weekly slaughter numbers were lower again at 715,586 pigs (previous week 734,760 ), the slaughter weights increased slightly at 97.6 kg . Pre-registrations remain unchanged at 252,900 pigs (previous week 247,400) . The live supply remains scarce. The ISN auction on Tuesday, March 12th 2024 brought an average of 2.35 €/kg in a range of 2.32 – 2.36 €/kg, an unchanged result. The V-Prize is for the period from March 14th, 2024 to March 20th. 2024 has been set at 2.20 €/kg in a range of 2.20 - 2.25 €/kg. ASF : As of March 11, 2024, 5,662 ASF-infected wild boars have been detected in Brandenburg, Saxony and Mecklenburg. In February 2024, 30 cases were confirmed, 26 of which were in Dresden. Market and price development in selected competitor countries: In Denmark , the comparable prices remained unchanged at €1.81/kg in the 11th week of 2024. In Belgium, the comparable prices of €2.08/kg were also retained unchanged in the 11th week of 2024. In the Netherlands, the quotations will continue unchanged in the 11th week of 2024 with comparable prices of €2.08/kg . In France/Brittany prices rose again by +5 ct/kg to €2.013/kg . The battle figures remain at 345.372 pigs still below average with a slaughter weight of 96.46 kg. In Italy, the prices rose insignificantly by +0.3 ct/kg in the 11th week of 2024. The supply remains limited with subdued demand. In Spain the prices will be increased again by +3 ct/kg in the 11th week of 2024 to a comparable €2.31/kg . The live supply is relatively scarce with limited sales opportunities. In the USA/IOWA, the increase in producer prices continues to the current €1.55/kg (+3ct/kg). Slaughter numbers have fallen, but demand has increased. The unit prices have increased significantly. The forward prices on the Chicago Stock Exchange are quoted at €1.70/kg for the delivery month April-24. For the summer barbecue season, stock prices are trading at over €2/kg. Brazil: Producer prices have stabilized on average at €1.55/kg . More lively demand can be observed at the beginning of the month. Support from export business is still low. However, increasing sales figures and high prices are expected for 2024. China: Prices have stabilized at €2.57/kg after a brief spike. The usual seasonal weakness in demand remains for the time being. The month of May-2024 is trading at 2.59 €/kg on the Dalian Stock Exchange. According to the Ministry of Agriculture's guidelines, the number of sows is to be reduced to a target of 39 million animals. In autumn, stock market prices of €2.80/kg are quoted. Conclusion: In most EU countries, pig prices have remained at the increased price level, with a few exceptions. Low slaughter numbers, smaller advance bookings, low cold storage stocks, ongoing stockpiling for the grilling season and stable demand ensure stable pork prices.
ZMP Live Expert Opinion
The live cattle market with pigs for slaughter remains scarce. Battle figures are below average. Low cold storage stocks and ongoing stockpiling for the grilling season are driving forces for price increases. However, passing on higher prices in the meat business is not that easy. The upcoming Easter business could still provide a breakthrough.