Speaking at Anpario plc, the international producer and distributor of natural feed additives, AGM, chief executive Richard Edwards  said: “We expect the farming crisis in China, due to African Swine Fever, to alleviate as the year progresses and, with pig prices now at record high levels, Chinese farmers are beginning to restock. We expect other regions such as Latin America to benefit by satisfying the production shortfalls in China.”

Focussing on Anpario Direct, the Company’s new online platform recently launched for the UK market targeting smaller farm enterprises and niche segments such as equine and game birds, Mr Edwards said, “It is pleasing to report that we have already received our first sales and the focus now is to drive website traffic through innovative direct and online marketing techniques, supported by our existing account management teams.”

Commenting on Anpario’s financial position Mr Edwards said, “Our strong balance sheet is reflected in the current cash balance of over £13m  and makes the Company well placed to invest if the short term industry problems offer opportunities for acquisitions or provide a platform from which to continue to make profitable progress.”