GB Pig Prices Edge Up in Q2 2025 Amid Strong Demand and Export Growth
GB Pig Prices Edge Up in Q2 2025 Amid Strong Demand and Export Growth
Great Britain’s pig prices showed a steady upward trend through the second quarter of 2025. The GB pig prices Q2 2025 average—the SPP for EU-spec pigs—climbed steadily from early April to early July, reaching 207.55 p/kg, a 2.79 p/kg rise.
Market Drivers
Domestic demand remains resilient, with Kantar reporting a 0.8% YoY increase in retail pig meat volumes for the 12 weeks to mid-June. This growth is largely thanks to added-value products and a seasonal boost from Easter and warm weather. Meanwhile, shoppers continue shifting from beef to pork, largely due to price differences.
EU prices rebounded in the second quarter, narrowing the gap with UK prices. By early July, the EU Grade E reference price reached 180.62 p/kg, still 27p below the GB SPP. Germany’s reinstated FMD-free status and increased seasonal demand helped fuel this rebound.
Trade Performance
UK pig meat exports rose substantially in May—10% month-on-month and 20% year-on-year, hitting nearly 27,000 tonnes. China emerged as the key destination driving growth.
Imports also increased, rising 9% from April and 3% YoY to 66,600 tonnes, boosted by stronger supply from Germany. Notably, the share of British pork on retail shelves remained stable, reinforcing domestic market strength.
Production Trends
Pig meat production remained positive. Q2 totalled 239,000 tonnes, up 1.6% YoY, supported by a similar rise in clean pig kill. Average carcase weights remained stable at around 90.3 kg. Warm weather slightly reduced weights in recent weeks.
Original reporting by AHDB
