UK pig market fairing well in first quarter
Foodservice closures and logistical challenges have not thwarted pigmeat demand. Heavy carcass weights increased production.
According to the AHDB UK pig meat outlook report for July, market pig prices in 2020 have remained strong in the UK, showing a modest upward trend with the EU-spec SPP reaching 164.64 p/kg by mid-June. Foodservice closures and logistical challenges have not thwarted demand. Strong growth in retail sales has helped maintain price levels.
Source: AHDB
Pig slaughter in the year to May was at 4.57 million head, 3% higher than the same period last year. Forecast slaughter levels for 2020 continue to be up 2% from 2019.
Carcass weights between January and April were an almost record 86 kg, which is 1-2 kg greater than a year prior. Production from January to April was 5% higher from the same period in 219, totalling 342,200 tonnes.
According to HMRC data, the UK imported 273,000 tonnes of pig meat (including offal) between January and April. Exports of fresh/frozen pork increased 7% on the year for the same period, totalling 81,000 tonnes. (Overall pigmeat exports were up 4%)
Source: Defra, AHDB estimates
July 2020/ AHDB/ United Kingdom.
https://ahdb.org.uk/
Source:https://pig333.com/latest_swine_news/uk-pig-market-fairing-well-in-first-quarter_16380/