Hog prices have continued to rise since the beginning of the year, although price increases slowed down slightly in March. The price has been settled at 2,380 € per kg carcass on 30 March, 43% higher than last year’s price.

Less pigs drive to high prices. The 5 weeks of March record a decrease of 7.5% of the slaughterings (28 850 fewer pigs slaughtered on average per week In March, and 22 750 fewer pigs slaughtered per week since 1st January 2023).

Carcass weights increased by 400 g, surpassing the same 2022 references for the first time this year. Producers want to sell heavier hogs to increase their profitability. The more kilos you produce, the more money you make. It is why to use genetics with a high growth rate and who don’t die can be a big advantage to produce a maximum of kilos.

Pigs slaughtered in the EU in 2022

In 2022 the number of pigs slaughtered in Europe decreased by 5.1% compared to 2021. This decline is expected to continue in 2023, following sows liquidation in 2022. Moreover, all lost production in many European countries won’t be never replaced. There will be fewer hogs on the market in 2023, which will keep high prices.

Source : Marché du Porc Breton, Eurostat