Poultry and Pork Price Trends in Late November: Analyzing the Short-Term Declines
Wholesale prices for certain poultry products declined by 8 to 10 percent in the last week of November compared with the prior week, while pork prices slipped by about 3 to 4 percent. These movements were reported by Kommersant, based on data provided by market participants. The figures illustrate a short term setback in wholesale meat pricing amid a broader discourse on supply and demand dynamics within the industry.
Even with this recent drop, the prices for listed meat products remain significantly elevated, ranging from 15 to 58 percent higher than the end of November 2022 according to the publication’s sources. Analysts point to producer concerns about potential restrictions on chicken exports as a contributing factor to the persistent price levels. The tension between export expectations and domestic market conditions seems to have kept wholesale values at relatively elevated levels despite the recent downward adjustments.
One industry observer noted that the price of the chicken carcass had risen by more than 51 percent over the course of the year, leaving room for a painless correction should demand and input costs align more favorably. This view underscores that substantial year-to-date gains can be followed by orderly retrenchments as market fundamentals realign after sharp climbs.
Alexey Kletsko, the manager at Yakov and Partners, observed that the downward pressure was also influenced by softer purchasing activity from meat processors as producers prepared for year-end holiday demand. He adds that the price relief is unlikely to be fatal for meat producers given that current prices still exceed last year’s levels when costs are comparable. Kletsko anticipates a continued decline in meat prices through the remainder of the year, with the possibility of further easing extending into the next year.
Earlier reports from Russia highlighted concerns about a dramatic rise in fish prices and a sharp drop in sales, signaling broader volatility across protein markets. The overall narrative suggests that while certain segments experience temporary price softness, there is lingering caution among buyers and sellers about how policy developments and seasonal demand will shape pricing in the near term.
Looking ahead, market participants have floated forecasts of potential record pricing for beef as the new year approaches. These projections reflect varying expectations about demand dynamics, supply constraints, and the interplay of global trade factors that can influence meat markets well beyond a single week.