Bangkok: Pig prices at farms have risen by 2 baht/kg, yet farmers are still facing losses.
According to Thai News Agency, the Swine Raisers Association reported a 2 baht/kg increase in farm-gate prices nationwide for live pigs. This follows the Kathin robe offering ceremony and the tourist season, both of which have stimulated consumption. Despite this rise, the association’s president revealed that small-scale farmers continue to incur losses due to high animal feed costs. The president urged the Department of Internal Trade to urgently control pork prices, as retail prices remain abnormally high even though farm-gate prices have decreased.
Mr. Sitthipan Thanakiatphinyo, President of the National Swine Raisers Association, disclosed that farm-gate pig prices rose across all regions this week. In the North, prices reached 60-62 baht/kg, the East saw 52-56 baht/kg, and the Northeast experienced 56 baht/kg. This marks a 2 baht increase from the previous week, yet average production costs remain over 70 baht/
kg. “Although prices have increased, they remain below the actual production cost, especially for small-scale producers who are still facing significant losses,” said Mr. Sitthipan.
The association is taking measures to reduce market supply, including cutting production cycles and selling pork at promotional prices. Efforts also involve selling underage piglets as roast pigs at special prices, a strategy led by both large and small farmers with no government compensation. “Some roast pigs sell for only 300-400 baht. This is a complete collaboration between large and small farmers. There is no financial support whatsoever,” Mr. Sitthipan stated.
Additionally, the association is discussing strategic stockpiling with major producers to stabilize market demand, inspired by China’s food stock management practices. They are also preparing to meet the new Minister of Commerce to address concerns over potential pig imports from the United States. “The sharp drop in pork prices in the second quarter was partly due t
o rumors about imported pork from the United States,” Mr. Sitthipan noted.
Mr. Sitthipan emphasized the need for the Department of Internal Trade to control pork prices in fresh markets, where retail prices remain high. Pork is being sold for as much as 160-180 baht per kilogram in some areas. “We urge the government to seriously review pork prices. We must not place consumers or small-scale farmers at a disadvantage,” he added.
Looking ahead, the association estimates a gradual recovery in year-end prices. However, the high cost of animal feed, driven by the corn price support policy, continues to pose a significant challenge. Thai pig production costs are nearly double the global market price, leading to sustained losses for farmers. Moreover, potential U.S. pork imports could further undermine Thai farmers’ competitiveness and viability.