Irish beef exports lower but more valuable

The total value of Irish beef exports increased significantly in 2025, despite a clear decline in export volumes. This applies to both the main export market, the United Kingdom and the European Union. The beef export totaled €3.4 billion, an increase of 24% compared to 2024, according to data from Bord Bia. The export of by-products was valued at €155 million, an increase of 12%. In contrast, the exported volumes decreased by 5% to approximately 474,000 tonnes. This is a decrease of about 40,000 tonnes compared to the average of the last decade. Scarce supply drives prices The lower volumes are largely the result of a decrease in cattle supply. The number of slaughterings by Irish meat processors decreased by an estimated 180,000 cattle. At the same time, the average carcass weight increased by about 1.5 kg. This partially compensated for the smaller number of slaughterings. The effects of this were mainly visible at the beginning of the year. However, in the second half of 2025, this effect was nullified by a steep decline in the availability of cattle. According to Bord Bia, the strong live export in 2023 and 2024 played an important role in this. Additionally, the structural decline of the dairy herd was a significant cause of the decrease. United Kingdom remains key market The United Kingdom remained the most important market for Irish beef in 2025. The export value to the UK increased by 25% to €1.6 billion, accounting for 47% of the total export value. However, the volume dropped by 5% until September 2025. UK import figures show a similar picture: the import volume decreased by 2.5%, while the import value rose by 22%. Consumer prices in British retail increased by 18% in 2025. Total spending on beef rose by 9.5%, while the sold volumes declined by 7.2%. In particular, stewing meat parts were affected by high prices, with a volume decrease of 20%. Steaks and minced meat also reported lower sales volumes of 10% and 9% respectively. In the food service sector, beef sales decreased by 5.4%, with takeaway and on-the-go segments losing ground. This is a result of increased imports from Australia, New Zealand, and South America. Other markets and outlook Meanwhile, exports to the EU increased by 28% in value to approximately €1.6 billion, accounting for 49% of the total export value. The growth was mainly driven by lower domestic production. Production declined by an average of 3% in the member states. The growth was particularly driven by strong demand for forequarters. The sales of premium cuts actually declined due to the increasing price difference with other meat types such as pork and poultry. Outside Europe, the export value to international markets decreased to €135 million. Exports to North America fell by 14% to €25 million, of which €20 million in beef was destined for Canada. Despite record prices in the US, market access for Irish beef remained limited due to quotas.