Pig prices move higher, but signs of pressure emerge

The DCA EU-6 pork price increased to €1.51 per kilo, up 4 cents week-on-week, mainly supported by continued strength in Germany and Poland, although the first signs of stabilization are starting to appear.German VEZG quotations have stabilised at €1.70 per kilo in weeks 12 and 13, after several weeks of sharp increases. This suggests that the upward trend may be reaching its peak, with the Easter demand likely already priced in. Signalling a possible end to the price increases, though it may still rise post-Easter depending on weather, barbecue season, and growth in foodservice demand.Poland remains one of the strongest markets in Europe. Prices have increased from €1.40 in week 4 to €1.75 per kilo, including a sharp 9-cent increase in week 11. This move reflects tightening supply, with slaughter volumes at 222,219 heads in week 11, still 12.2% below last year. As a large producer, accounting for around 9% of EU output, Poland plays an important role in the market. However, with only around 6.7% share in EU pig trade in 2025, the market remains more domestically driven.In comparison, the Dutch market continues to lag behind. The DCA Dutch pork price increased by 2 cents to €1.46 per kilo, slightly narrowing the gap with Germany. This reflects structural differences: Germany benefits from stronger domestic demand ahead of Easter, while the Netherlands remains more exposed to export markets. This is becoming increasingly relevant as export conditions are under pressure. Rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions are pushing up container freight costs, particularly through higher bunker surcharges, weighing on exporters.In Denmark after a prolonged period of stability due to ample supply, Danish Crown increased prices by 5 cents to €1.26 per kilo. However, as a strongly export-oriented market, Denmark remains exposed to the same external pressures as the Netherlands. Piglet prices continue to risePiglet prices continued to increase across Europe, with the EU-5 price index reaching €63.88 per head in week 11. The DCA BestPigletPrice rose by €3 to €57 per piglet in week 12, while the German VEZG quotation reached €56, confirming the broader upward trend.Spain remains a key driver, with piglet prices at €65 for 20-kg piglets (approximately €81.25 for 25-kg piglets). The increase is supported by preparations for the tourist season and improving hog prices from early spring. This has led to increased piglet exports towards Spain, supporting prices across Northwest Europe. Italy and France are also showing upward movements.However, while volumes remain solid, free market prices are no longer increasing. Spanish demand remains present but is becoming more price-sensitive, suggesting that the market is approaching saturation. At the same time, uncertainty in the pig market is weighing on sentiment. The upcoming holiday period will result in two broken slaughter weeks, reducing short-term demand. As a result, the market is expected to become more cautious.