Rabobank Report: Global Pork Industry Q3 2012

Global Pork Production Projected To Decline In 2013

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Jul 27, 2012, 07:30 ET

NEW YORK, July 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Rabobank has published a new Q3 report looking at the global pork industry, forecasting a stabilization of global pork prices with possible downward pressure in the next few months, but a rebound in prices along with a decline of pork production in 2013.

The report, authored by Rabobank's Food & Agribusiness Research and Advisory group, says that surging feed costs are likely to have induced herd liquidation. Sow culling will increase pork supply and weight, pressuring prices downwards for the remainder of the year. This will likely limit the previously expected strong price levels towards the end of the year. In addition, it will weigh heavily on farmers' profitability.

Rabobank further predicts that declining pork production into 2013 will result in a rebound in prices, but it remains to be seen if this will be sufficient to cover the booming feed costs. David C. Nelson, Rabobank's Global Sector Strategist for Animal Protein and Grains & Oilseeds, says that while feed costs are projected to remain elevated until at least mid-2013, the primary risk to this view is the further worsening of the economic crisis, which is already pressuring global GDP growth. A slowdown in high-growth Asian markets would limit import demand and price potential.

Rabobank concludes that it is clear that we have passed the 'no margin for error' feed supply situation. The drought can be viewed as a major 'error,' and the industry has entered into a situation where sufficient sourcing at any price is the primary concern for both farmers and processors. The goal is now to limit losses.

A copy of the Rabobank Q3 2012 Global Pork Industry report is available to media on request.

Rabobank Group is a global financial services leader providing wholesale and retail banking, asset management, leasing, real estate services, and renewable energy project financing. Founded over a century ago, Rabobank is one of the largest banks in the world, with nearly $1 trillion in assets and operations in more than 40 countries, and is among the highest rated private banks by S&P and Moody's. Internationally Rabobank focuses on food and agriculture and in North America it is a premier bank to the food, beverage and agribusiness industry. Rabobank's Food & Agribusiness Research and Advisory group is comprised of more than 80 analysts around the world who provide expert analysis, insight and counsel to Rabobank clients about trends, issues and developments in all major sectors of agriculture. www.Rabobank.com

SOURCE Rabobank