Pig numbers in Denmark have increased according to data from the latest census, with a two per cent rise in the breeding herd and a 10 per cent rise in maiden gilts.
According to a report from the Danish Agriculture & Food Council, although production is expected to show a small increase in 2014, exports of weaners are forecast to stay at high levels.
A recent survey from the DAFC showed that, while most pig meat sold in the UK market comes from independently assured supply chains, significant differences still exist from country to country.
The results of the December pig census showed a one per cent increase in overall pig numbers in Denmark.
The DAFC is predicting that the rise in the breeding herd and maiden gilts could be an indication that Danish pig farmers are now more confident about future market prospects.
Danish pig production was virtually unchanged in 2013 at just over 29 million pigs, and is forecast to grow to 29.4 million in 2014.
Exports of weaners rose to 9.6 million head in 2013 and the figure could rise to 10 million head in 2014.
While Germany is the main destination for Danish weaners but sales to Poland rose significantly last year, because of a significant drop in sow numbers in the country.
Because of the weaner exports, the availability of pigs for slaughter in Denmark is expected to fall to 18.9 million head in 2014.
