Following the strength of Irish live cattle exports to the Netherlands in 2009, early indications suggest that 2010 will see a continuation of this trend.

In 2009, Irish calf exports destined for the Dutch veal sector reached a five year high, where a total of 69,000 calves were exported for the year.

In the first three months of 2010, nearly 40,000 Irish calves have been exported to the Netherlands, representing a 280% lift in shipments compared to 2008.

The Netherlands is the largest veal producer within Europe and has a capacity to process over 1.4 million veal animals per annum. Every year, Dutch veal farmers import approximately 770,000 new born calves.

In the first three months of this year, the country imported a total of 241,000 new born calves. Germany remains the leading supplier of these calves, followed by Poland and then Ireland. The continuation of a ban on British calves due to TB has meant that no live exports have taken place since late 2008.

Overall, the outlook remains promising for Irish livestock exporters as an anticipated fall in dairy and beef production in Europe should lead towards an overall shortage of newborn calves.

Last year, Irish live cattle exports were valued at EUR158 million (US$209 million).