The EU pork market was reported neutral during the week, with prices unaltered compared to the previous week. All the underlying prices of the EU pork basket were unchanged week-on-week (w-o-w). With all underlying markets moving similarly, increasing domestic consumption along with seasonal expectations and limited pork supply continue to be the key price drivers across the EU. However, the Easter holiday led to reduced market activity, turning market sentiment neutral. Increasing seasonal demand, limited availability and high prices of other animal proteins (beef, lamb, and chicken) are likely to support pork prices in April, according to market players.
In China, indications of a recent African swine fever (ASF) outbreak continue to dominate the market. The Chinese Ministry of Agriculture stated last week that there was no such outbreak, instead referring to rising production figures. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the sow population amounted to 43.43 million animals at the end of February. This was not only 1.7% more than a year ago, but also 2.4 million, or almost 6%, more than the target of 41 million sows set by the government in 2021. The total number of pigs at the end of February was about 5% above the previous year's level.
One source stated, “the Chinese pork market continues to be a big uncertainty factor. We simply do not know what demand will be like for the remainder of 2023. And with China being the largest importer of pork, all market players are monitoring this market closely.”
The Mintec Benchmark Prices (MBP) for Pig Deadweight Grade S EXW Europe [Mintec Code: BW56] was assessed at €2.41/kg on 11th April, unchanged on the week.