Due to the good outlook for meat exports, the Brazilian feed companies are expecting growth of 6.5% in 2007.
Although the meat export forecast looks positive, doubt remains over the pork sector, which accounts for 27% of the meat segment in Brazil, according to the sector’s union, Sindirações. Sales growth so far is forecast at 5% for pork, compared with 6% in 2006.
The problem has been that at the beginning of this year, the higher feed prices increased overall pig production costs by 10%. Therefore, pig breeders have been selling animals for less than production cost.