EU Commission reports market prices remain stable

UK - The pigmeat managment committee meeting summary - September 2006.

19 September 2006

3 minute read

Europe

Summary

Prices across the EU remain stable and above the price gained this time last year. A seasonal drop is expected, and producers should be careful not to over supply the market due to the good prices. Minor changes were made to the codification documents - such as contact details. France circulated working documents concerning carcass grading. The Commission welcomed the UK draft pricing questionnaire and encouraged early comments from MS. An expert meeting was proposed for 7 November.

The Market

EU average price remains stable and significantly higher than the same period in the last 4 years. Many Member States reported prices up to 18% higher than last year.

Export Refunds

No proposals for change.

Codification of 1432/94 (import arrangements for pigmeat)

3 Regulations were recently voted on and published in the OJ. Minor changes and simplifications were made. The legal situation remains unchanged.

Carcass grading in France

Part one - The protocol for the ‘Image-Meater’ automatic visual, non-dissecting method was presented by France. The Commission authorised France to start the testing.

Part two - Three methods are proposed - the CSB Ultra-Meater, the Sydel Capteur Gras/Maigre (fat/lean sensor - CGM) and the ruler. All were calibrated in exactly the same manner, so will produce identical results. French working documents were circulated, translated text will be circulated next month for vote.

Formation of pig prices (document of the British Delegation)

The draft questionnaire (circulated by the Commission), aims to bring price reporting across the MS in line with each other. The questionnaire addresses the ‘E’ grade issue, and confirms what additions / deductions are made to the price by each MS. The Commission welcomed the questionnaire and praised the contents.

AOB

The Commission suggested an Expert meeting be organised for 7th November. This will focus on new regulations and grading methods. Spain asked the Commission if they were considering removing the export refund for cured hams. The Commission responded that any consideration will be raised at Mancom meetings. Refund changes will also depend on WTO negotiations.