Live cattle export numbers in Ireland are declining significantly, with 2012 figures of just over 160,000 representing a 50% drop from 2010 figures.

Last year's data also shows a live export drop of 25% on 2011 shipments, when 215,000 cattle were exported. The greatest numbers in recent years were the 340,000 head seen in 2010, when almost half were calves.

Exports of calves experienced the most dramatic decline in 2012, falling by 57% to just over 38,000 head. Collectively, shipments of weanlings and store cattle were 14% lower than 2011.

Meat specialists at Bord Bia have blamed strong Irish calf prices leaving these animals less price-competitive than in previous years. Holstein-Friesian bull calves tended to average close to EUR190 (US$253) per head last spring, up from EUR130 (US$173) the previous year. This is believed to be partly due to including dairy farms rearing surplus calves to avoid going over-quota.

Principle destinations for Irish calves include the Netherlands and Belgium, although in 2012, these recorded declines of 56% and 68% respectively, in the volumes exported. However, in most years, demand from these markets 'sets the base' for calf prices here, with veal producers looking to source healthy young calves of between two and five weeks of age.

The Dutch veal sector is highly integrated, with production closely coordinated by the processors in order to meet specifications and to avoid a surplus of supply. The industry is highly export-focused, with up to 90% of their production destined for markets such as Italy, Germany and France.

Overall, the Netherlands imports up to 900,000 calves every year for veal production. Some recovery in calf exports to that market is expected, particularly if prices remain below last year's levels.