Market prices have held steady, and minimal variations in price have been seen. Steady prices are reported from Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, France and Austria.

The price increase, typical for the season, seems to have come to a halt in Spain, as market prices also held steady here. Quoting a corrected price level of €1.75 per kg slaughter weight, Spain continues to be the front runner among the five EU member countries most significant in pig keeping.

Demand on the part of the slaughter companies is exceeding the quantities on offer, which are scarce for seasonal reasons. According to various market observers in many EU member countries this shortage is one of the main current price-setting factors.

On the other hand, rumours are surfacing about a lot of intense bargaining during the conclusion of contracts with Chinese importers of pork from Europe. The Danish markets, being heavily influenced by the export market, went slightly down.

Trends in the German market:

The mood is improving on the domestic pig market. Demand for pigs is brisk, and according to the marketers, there are no signs currently of reduced slaughter activities.