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the number of livestock in Slovenia declined further in 2010, most notably in pig and poultry breeding. Since 2006, the number of pigs had decreased from 575,000 to 395,500 in December 2010, with the number of farms breeding pigs falling by 4,000 to 31,000 in 2010.
The reasons for the decline are multifold. Pig breeders have warned that the falling prices at which pigs are sold only cover 65 percent of the growing production costs. In addition, pork production covers only 30 percent of the demand and since the Slovenian market is small, it is easily put out of balance by incoming meat from other European countries.
With rising food prices, declining farms, farmers, and livestock numbers, the future of food production is somewhat worrying. However, the government has recognised the need for action. Now the hope is that it will act on its promises in a swift and efficient manner.
The reasons for the decline are multifold. Pig breeders have warned that the falling prices at which pigs are sold only cover 65 percent of the growing production costs. In addition, pork production covers only 30 percent of the demand and since the Slovenian market is small, it is easily put out of balance by incoming meat from other European countries.
With rising food prices, declining farms, farmers, and livestock numbers, the future of food production is somewhat worrying. However, the government has recognised the need for action. Now the hope is that it will act on its promises in a swift and efficient manner.
http://www.sloveniatimes.com/en/inside.cp2?uid=406FC18F-663C-04CA-6D15-4983A992A148&linkid=news&cid=ED4C6575-3589-840B-A072-1B6760015E2E
