The latest average weaner calf price dropped further last week to R31.96 per kilogram, now about 7% higher than a year ago. Last year, prices traded at R29.82, which was the lowest point. We can expect higher prices from now as we move deeper into winter. Prices in the Eastern Free State rose to R32.66, while prices in the Eastern Cape and Central Free State dropped to R31.00.

The A2/3 carcass price rose to R55.29, with the C-grade price slightly lower at R43.22. As mentioned last week, it seems that especially the C-grade price will follow an upward trend in June and July.

In the sheep market, the latest feeder lamb price increased by 0.6% to R40.67 per kilogram, which is 3% lower than a year ago. Last year, lamb prices were on an upward trend until the end of July, after which they began to decline from August to the end of the year. We expect a similar trend this year, with better lamb prices possible in June and July. Prices in the North and Eastern Free State traded higher at R43 per kilogram, while prices in the South and Central Free State rose to R40.50.

The A2/3 price increased to R84.15, while the C2/3 price rose to R55.64. However, the C-grade price might rise sharply due to better demand as we move into winter.

In the wool industry, the non-RWS wool price dropped to R147.15, while the RWS price fell to R164.01 per kilogram. Wool prices in Australia also declined further, and demand remained relatively low.

Poultry prices mostly traded sideways, with the frozen price at R34.85, fresh prices at R34.78, and the IQF price dropping further to R29.59. It seems the stronger exchange rate over the past month is now filtering through to the IQF price, which could also suppress the other prices. We can expect lower prices during June, but from July, prices might start to rise again.

As expected last week, the latest baconer price dropped to R30.55 last week, porker prices fell to R31.71, while the latest sausage pig price rose to R24.23 per kilogram. Unfortunately, we are still in a downward price trend, and we might only see better prices from mid-August.

Goat prices recovered after last week’s decline, with the latest large goat price rising to R42.86, small goats increasing to R49.55, and goat ewes rising to R40.74 per kilogram. Prices are expected to remain volatile week-to-week, but the general trend should be upward until the end of August.

In the feed market, the latest chop price dropped to R3548 per ton, and even though many animals are currently on feed in feedlots, most feedlots are using alternative feeds as white maize is too expensive given the current livestock prices. They are looking more at yellow maize and maize grits at the moment. This could impact the demand and prices for white maize.

Soybean oil cake prices traded at R8983, sunflower oil cake at R6000, and cottonseed oil cake at R6650, while grade 1 lucerne prices rose to R3500 per ton.