031243 Stronger Retail Pork Prices Expected

Washington, DC - Strong consumer demand for pork is expected to send fourth-quarter retail prices about 4% above same-period prices a year ago. Fourthquarter retail pork prices typically drop below third-quarter prices. But this year the reverse is expected. Fourth-quarter prices are expected to be slightly higher than the third quarter price of $2.70 per pound. For 2003, retail prices are expected to average in the mid-$2.60-per- pound range, less than 1-percent above 2002. In 2004, with tight beef supplies continuing to drive pork demand, and slightly lower pork production, consumers can expect to pay about 1% more for pork than in 2003

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