UK pork imports fall in February while exports rise

Pork imports fell by 10% in February compared with the same time last year – the largest annual fall in more than six months.

According to a report by BPEX, this was partly the result of a drop in EU production for the month. “But demand in the UK has also been relatively weak, with the latest retail figures showing a decline in purchases,” it said. “In addition, the average import price increased by 7%, so the total value of pork imports was down by 4% to £43.8m.”

UK exports increased by 18%, year-on-year, with more sales to Denmark and China, and continued growth in shipments of offal to Belgium, Germany and China.

Pig producers received a slightly smaller percentage of the retail price in March, with farmgate values rising by less than the 2% retail price increase. On average, producers received 40% of the retail price, one percentage point less than in February but two points more than the same time last year, said the report. “An 11% annual rise in the Deadweight Average Pig Price was the main factor, with retail prices rising by only 4%.”

 

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