Market conditions will be favourable for the rest of 2021 with markets and buying patterns returning to normal, say the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA).
A total of 110,000 to 120,000 less slaughter cattle are available compared to the same period in 2020.
IFA livestock chairman Brendan Golden said supplies of finished cattle would be tight for the rest of the year. He predicted this will add competition for farmers and ensure numbers of finished cattle will be tight up to year-end.
Mr Golden pointed out the live export trade to Northern Ireland had shown a strong performance which is expected to continue until the end of the year.
“42,655 cattle have been exported to NI this year, increasing from 13,896 in 2020,” he said.
“In the UK market, production is predicted to be back at least 4 per cent for the year by combining reduced numbers and lighter carcase weights at slaughter.
“Import demand is expected to strengthen over the coming months as the foodservice sector returns to normal trading conditions. Irish beef has a strong foothold in this sector.”
LSL News.