Belgian pig producers announce new demonstrations

In Belgium, strong protest has risen against the low prices paid for pigs – just like in the Netherlands. The low prices are the result of the dioxin crisis in Germany. Since Germany is Europe’s largest pig market, any development on that market will have its consequences in markets in surrounding countries.

 

Small number of slaughterhouses
Veva said in a press release that it has come to exist that a relatively small number of German slaughterhouses has indirectly determined the European pig prices for many years. The system is characterised by volatility and it fails to adjust itself to true demand and supply, Veva said.

 

Last week, during the show Agriflanders in Ghent, pig producers already showed their anger.

 

Three slaughterhouses recently lowered  their prices by €0.11/kg – although it was agreed to keep prices the way they were.

 

Pig producers, delivering pigs for the retail chain Colruyt however, have been told to receive €5/pig extra until February 11. This was achieved after sectorwide discussions. The Belgian Agricultural Federation (Boerenbond) indicated that this example should be followed.

 

The extra money for producers will be jointly paid by the Colruyt group, related slaughterhouses and compound feed companies.

 

• Agriflanders   

• Colruyt 

• Belgian Agricultural Federation (in Dutch)

• Veva (in Dutch)