EU pork exports
EU pork exports fell by 2.16% in the first five months of 2013 compared to the same period of the previous year. The decline in exports to Russia, Hong Kong, South Korea and Belarus was particularly significant. On the other hand, exports to China increased by 40%. Unfortunately, exports to China are of low value, meaning that the compensatory effect is comparatively small.
Japanese imports with an average export price of € 3.76/kg from the EU - primarily from Denmark - remained at a slightly higher level. Exports to the many small importing countries have increased, with the Philippines leading the way with an increase of over 40%.
EU exports to Ukraine are struggling. The fiercest competitor is Brazil, with pig prices of between €1.10 and €1.30/kg in the summer months. However, the high Brazilian transportation costs still need to be taken into account.
Live exports remain of secondary importance with a converted carcass weight of less than 0.5%.
The outlook for the second half of 2013 is weaker. The increased farm-gate price level in the EU-28 is likely to set tight limits on sales opportunities against the backdrop of other global pig prices. It is also possible that no additional quantities will be available.
