The European beef supply is still tight

The number of cattle slaughterings in the European Union is still at a significantly lower level than a year earlier. In the period up to and including August, the number of slaughterings was significantly lower. At the same time, import volumes have increased and export volume has decreased. The number of slaughterings in EU member states amounted to 13.9 million animals, according to figures from the European Statistical Office (Eurostat). Last year, the number was still 14.7 million in the same period. The total supply of cattle was 5.5% lower. Especially a significant decline in the number of calves contributed to this. There were 0.3 million fewer calves slaughtered. The number of slaughterings amounted to 2.4 million. A decrease of almost 10%. The number of slaughtered (young) cows also decreased significantly by 5.5% to 7.1 million animals. The number of slaughtered bulls remained more stable. Beef production decreases slightly less sharplyIt seems that livestock farmers have anticipated the high prices. The total slaughter weight decreased slightly less quickly than the number of slaughtered cattle, a sign that farmers delivered heavier animals. The total beef production in the European Union amounted to 4.15 million tons in the period from January to August 2025. This was around 3.9%, or 169,000 tons, less than in the same period last year. Up to and including August, more beef was imported by EU member states. The cumulative imported volume up to August amounted to 226,000 tons, compared to 200,000 tons a year earlier. The export volume also decreased, from 738,000 tons last year to 591,000 tons now (-147,000 tons). Beef prices rising again after dip?Recently, prices have been under pressure after last summer's peak. The supply of cattle in the Netherlands was clearly more ample than in the previous period. Farmers are starting to cull more cows now that milk prices are under pressure and they may have insufficient phosphate rights for the expected production this year. Slowly, preparations for the holidays are beginning, and luxury beef products are being demanded more again. On the livestock market in Leeuwarden, the quotations for slaughter cows have risen again this week, after another decrease last week. This is an indication that the market, at least locally, is significantly tighter again. Depending on the number of animals offered by farmers, demand in the lead-up to Christmas may potentially drive prices up further or at least break the declining trend of the past week. Overall, it seems that in recent months, after some short periods of both decreases and increases, we are bumping against a ceiling. Historically high prices must be able to be paid by consumers, and in this regard, prices seem to be at their maximum. Meanwhile, pork and poultry meat are becoming cheaper, which increases competition in the meat section.