The EU-spec DAPP increased marginally to 167.95p/kg for the week ended August 31, according the latest BPEX Pig Market Weekly.
Normally, finished pig prices would ease during this time of the year but increasing prices on the Continent are helping to support the UK market, the report says. The figure is 18p/kg higher than the same week last year.
Estimated weekly slaughterings totalled 156,400 head, down 7,000 head on the previous week, partly as a result of the summer bank holiday. This was 2% (3,400 head) down on the same week last year, given the tightening supply situation.
Carcase weights edged up again to 79.47kg and while the seasonal increase has been delayed, it has become more apparent as of late. Compared with the same week last year weights averaged 1.6kg more.
The weaner market edged up for the week ending September 10 to average £53.70/head. This was a week-on-week change of 4p. Despite some easing in the feed prices, the ongoing sluggish finished pig market meant that producers were somewhat reluctant to pay more for weaners. However, prices are still running almost £15/head higher than the same week last year.