French Pig Herd Continues to Shrink
FRANCE - The decade-long downward trend in the French pig herd is continuing, according to France's May 2011 pig census.
31 August 2011
2 minute read
Overall pig numbers were just over two per cent lower than in May 2010. The total number of sows fell one percent. This was the smallest percentage fall since 2003.
However, numbers of maiden and in-pig gilts were down more significantly, by around five per cent, suggesting the breeding herd is unlikely to increase in the coming months.
As in the rest of Europe, high feed prices are a key factor, having risen by around 50 per cent compared with year earlier levels.
More recently, weak domestic demand led to declines in French pig prices during May and June, when prices elsewhere in Europe were generally stable, making conditions more challenging.
FRENCH CENSUS, May 2011
000 head
2010
2011
% Change
Total sows
1,158
1,144
-1
In-pig sows
825
820
-1
In-pig gilts
145
137
-6
Maiden gilts
122
117
-4
Piglets <20kg
3,518
3,474
-1
Young pigs 20-50kg
3,875
3,746
-3
Slaughter pigs over 50kg
5,572
5,456
-2
