"A significant number of farmers are now breaking even. However, this current period of relative respite comes after months of extremely poor farmer returns coupled with crippling hikes in input costs," he told Farming Life.
"There may well be some additional pork and bacon coming on to the market at the present time. But the fundamental drivers of supply and demand should combine to deliver a relatively strong producer return for pigmeat moving forward.
"And this is a point that we will be making strongly to the supermarkets over the coming weeks."
Commenting on the recent Vion take-over of Grampian Country Foods, Keith Smyton confirmed that a deputation from the Forum will be seeking a meeting with the management at Cookstown in the very near future.
"The takeover has been submitted to the competition commission," added Keith Smyton.
"However, it is our intention to meet with the management at Cookstown as soon as this hurdle has been cleared.
"First impressions, though, are positive. Vion is one of largest food businesses in Europe and the Forum is hopeful that the company will have the wherewithal to invest in its new Northern Ireland operation.
"It's no secret that Cookstown is an extremely important part of the Grampian operation.
"There is every reason why Vion should consider the plant in the same light and, on that basis, the company's arrival in Northern Ireland should be looked upon as a good news story for the local pig sector."
The Forum chief executive went on to point out that the recent launch of Foyle Food Group's pig division brings a new dimension to the marketing of pigs in Northern Ireland.
"We have already received a number of enquiries from producers about the new operation," he confirmed.
"They are not further processing pigs at the present time. However, their presence in the market adds significantly to the competition for finished stock. And this is more good news for local pig producers."