A combination of reduced exports, federal budget cuts, income tax increases and higher fuel prices is adding up to a discouraging outlook for pork producers.

Economists and producers hoped prices would return to break-even levels this spring, said Chris Hurt, Purdue Extension agricultural economist.

But pork prices are dropping as concerns about demand are rising.

“The first of those concerns is the weakened buying power of U.S. consumers,” Hurt said.
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