Austrian agricultural markets show mixed trends in pork and cattle

The Austrian pork market is facing challenges due to stagnant sales of processed goods and well-stocked freezers. According to reports from the Carinthian Chamber of Agriculture, high inventory levels are dampening hopes for increased demand ahead of the Christmas season. While slaughter-ready pigs currently have buyers, the accumulation of meat products in retail and processing sectors suggests limited capacity for slaughterhouses to absorb additional volumes.

In Styria, a similar trend is observed, though demand for fresh meat remains slightly stronger than for processed goods. The domestic supply of fattening pigs has seen a slight increase but remains within normal parameters.

In contrast, the cattle auction in Rottenbach, Lower Austria, reported a recovery in demand for pregnant heifers following a summer lull. Despite the impact of drought and subsequent feed shortages on the sale of first-calf cows, all FLV cows were sold. High-value genetic offspring achieved significant prices, with top prices reaching 3,050 euros for specific first-calf cows.