0
In 2016–17 closing sow numbers are forecast to rise by 3 per cent to 282,000 head, the fourth consecutive year of expansion. This reflects strong demand for domestically produced fresh pork.
Over the short to medium term, domestic fresh pork demand is expected to remain relatively strong and continue to drive expansion in the national sow herd. The rate of expansion is expected to be gradual, due to the high entry costs of housing sows.
Overall, Australian sow numbers are projected to rise to around 294,000 head in 2021–22, 5 per cent larger than the forecast 2016–17 closing inventory of 282,000 head.
March 2017/ Abares/ Australia.
http://www.agriculture.gov.au/abares
