Live hog prices across Vietnam continued to fall after a week of sharp declines. The national buying-price range dropped to 43,000–46,000 dong per kilogram. Some southern provinces recorded declines of up to 4,000 dong per kilogram, while prices in many northern and central provinces reached 43,000 dong.
In the north, prices fell by another 1,000–3,000 dong per kilogram, bringing the regional range to 43,000–45,000 dong. Ninh Binh currently has the lowest price in the region at 43,000 dong per kilogram. Buying prices in most northern provinces are around 44,000–45,000 dong. Weak demand and ample supply have pushed pork prices to their lowest level in two years.
Prices in the central region were unchanged at the start of the week. After widespread declines last week, however, live hog prices fell by another 2,000–3,000 dong per kilogram. In Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Quang Tri, Hue, Da Nang, Quang Ngai and Gia Lai, prices start at 43,000 dong. Across the region, they range from 43,000 to 46,000 dong, down from 45,000–49,000 dong previously.
Southern prices are also following the downward trend, falling by 1,000–4,000 dong per kilogram over the past week. Dong Nai, Tay Ninh and Ho Chi Minh City recorded the largest declines, down 4,000 dong from 50,000 to 46,000 dong per kilogram. Despite the drop, they remain among the areas with the highest buying prices in the country. Prices in Dong Thap and Ca Mau are 45,000 dong. An Giang, Vinh Long and Can Tho are at 44,000 dong, the lowest level in the south.
After a week of continuous declines, live hog prices nationwide are now 43,000–46,000 dong per kilogram. The prolonged fall is putting more pressure on livestock profitability, especially for farms that buy piglets and feed at high prices. Lower selling prices may reduce farmers' margins and could result in losses if production costs exceed the farm-gate price.
In the first days of November, prices will continue to depend on the number of hogs brought to market and buying demand. If supply remains high while demand does not improve, live hog prices may face further pressure. The decline has paused for now, but there is not enough evidence to say that prices have reached a bottom or are about to enter a recovery cycle.
Sources: Thanh Niên
