Bangkok: The pig farmers' association is calling for a 2 baht increase in pork prices, while consumers brace for a 20 satang per egg rise in chicken egg costs.

According to Thai News Agency, the Thai Swine Breeders Association attributes the fluctuations in pork prices to market mechanisms influenced by hot weather, rising feed costs, and the ongoing oil crisis. This comes after pig farmers have endured significant losses over the past three years.

Mr. Sittiphan Thanakiattiphinyo, President of the National Swine Breeders Association, clarified that the pork price increases are driven by reasonable market forces and not by price gouging. He explained that extreme heat slows pig growth, which, coupled with steady or rising demand, results in increased farm-gate prices. Despite the current selling price of 68-72 baht/kg, which is near the cost of production, it remains low compared to previous peaks.

The impact of the Middle East conflict on fuel and raw material prices further exacerbates the situation for pig farmers. Key feed components like soybean meal and corn face shortages, while the rising import costs of additives and probiotics strain production expenses. Diesel price hikes and shortages also disrupt pig transportation logistics.

Egg farmers, similarly affected by harsh weather and rising costs, are seeking a 20 satang price increase per egg to mitigate losses. Mr. Manoch Chutabtim, President of the Egg Laying Chicken Farmers Association, reported a 3-5% drop in egg production and smaller egg sizes due to the severe weather. As a result, farmers face continuous losses and are forced to reduce chicken numbers to cut costs.

The current trading price of eggs, at 2.70-2.90 baht, falls short of the production cost estimated by the Office of Agricultural Economics (OAE) at 3.20 baht per egg. The proposed price of 3.40 baht per egg offers minimal profit for farmers, highlighting eggs as the most affordable protein source compared to other options.