ISN reports that this week, supply and demand for pigs for slaughter is altogether balanced across the EU market. Until recently, the quantities of live pigs on offer – which is undergoing a seasonal spike – could be marketed swiftly across the borders.

The official figures stagnated in Germany, while the live animals’ market is reported to be cleared completely in Austria. In Belgium the quotation also remains steady, although currently the Belgians are not directly benefiting from the Chinese demand because of various local outbreaks of African swine fever.

As for the meat trade within Europe, limits are still emerging in reaching higher sales prices. Impulse was mostly attributed by exports towards China, where the demand is continues to be high. The outbreak of ASF in the Philippines also has hopes rising for pork exporters.

In the meantime, China has stopped the intended tariff increase for the time being. As is reported by the media, Chinese enterprises have already begun to investigate prices for US products. Pork from the EU might have to cope with competition.

The French quotation, after having improved over the past weeks, was able to record another small increase. There the quantities of pigs for slaughter do appear sufficient. At the same time, the French meat industry is complaining quite loudly about unfavourable margins.

Against the pan-European trend, the corrected British quotation went upward.