The US hide market began the week with a few price increases from last Friday for regular weight Butt Branded Steer (BBS) and Branded Heifer (HBH) hides. BBS hides increased $0.50/piece from last Friday, and HBH hides increased $1.50/piece from the last traded level. The price increases were driven by demand from automotive and footwear tanners.

A US packer reported several trades for material, that are not reported on the Price Guide to tanners in the Hebei province. There were no reports regarding the shipments that were held at the ports, but sellers opined that furniture makers are accepting their hide shipments again due to the incoming hide purchases.

Also, a US packer reported that sales activity was strong over the weekend, selling well over 100 containers. Other sellers reported slow demand from tanners in Italy and increasing competition from hide sellers in South America.

Cattle Slaughter Forecast