Piglets and pigs prices edge up after dip

Even in the last week of February, the demand for piglets remains exceptionally strong. The Spanish demand holds up well and the pig prices are also rising. These are clear factors that support further price increases. The rising prices of the past weeks stimulate domestic demand, but the market is primarily driven by exports to Spain. Solid prices are being paid for current batches, higher than many had anticipated in advance. Apparently, there is enough confidence in the pork prices in Spain to now pay relatively high prices for piglets. Historically, the Spanish demand peaks in week 8 and then gradually decreases. For the coming weeks, the export opportunities are reportedly favorable, suggesting that the spring recovery can continue for now. A decline is not yet in sight. The DCA BestPigletPrice rises this week by €4.50 to €47.50 per piglet, marking the largest increase of this year. The market in other European countries is also moving, with price increases of €3.50 in Germany and €5 in Spain. Pig prices rise, but by how much?The pig market is also gaining strength. In the Netherlands, the supply is tight, which is evident from the rapidly falling slaughter numbers. In Germany, there is relatively more supply, although pigs are also being held there. Further price increases are on the way. However, the pig prices are currently rising faster than the prices of meat parts. Slaughterhouses are coming out of a period with sufficient margins, and in spring, the live market typically rises relatively quickly. Traders opt for a rising DCA Market Mutation price, although the spread this week is large: from €0.04 to €0.12 per kilo. In other words: “That Dutch pig prices will rise further seems certain, but the question is at what pace. Much will depend on developments in Germany, where a rise of €0.05 to €0.10 is expected on Wednesday. Based on the submissions, the DCA Market Mutation price rises by €0.08 per kilo.